The fall of Singapore: Shades of grey

February 25, 2017, 11:52 pm

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It may be 75 years, but the events and feelings around the fall of Singapore to the Japanese, including the rise of the Indian National Army and Sino-Japan hostilities, still resonate today.
By Walter Woon, Published The Straits Times, 25 Feb 2017

Amid the solemn commemorations of the 75th anniversary of the fall of Singapore to the Japanese during World War II and the controversy over the naming of the Syonan Gallery last week, another anniversary passed unmarked.

On Feb 17, 1942, two days after the British surrendered, the Indian prisoners of war (POWs) were paraded in Farrer Park. The British commanding officer, Colonel Hunt, handed custody of them to Major Fujiwara Iwaichi, who made a short speech in English. Fujiwara was followed on the podium by Captain Mohan Singh, a former officer of the 1/14 Punjabis captured at the Battle of Jitra. After a stirring oration, Mohan Singh declared that they were forming an Indian National Army (INA) to fight for a free India. He asked the assembled POWs whether they would join up. Some 20,000 did so.

There is a tendency to view the fall of Singapore and subsequent events in black and white. In contrast to the war in Europe, which can justifiably be depicted as a struggle to defeat a vicious, evil regime, the war in Asia was much more nuanced. Nothing illustrates the shades of grey more vividly than the history of the INA.

The INA that was formed at Farrer Park was not the first. The Germans had previously established a Free India Legion (Legion Freies Indien) from Indian POWs taken in North Africa. This was done at the instigation of Indian nationalist leader Subhas Chandra Bose, who in an epic escape had made his way from India through Afghanistan and onwards to Germany in 1941.

That Free India Legion was known as the Azad Hind Fauj (Free India Army), the name which the Indian National Army also bore. Bose saw the enemies of Britain as allies in his quest for Indian independence.

Meanwhile, in late 1942, the British had detained nationalist leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawarhalal Nehru in order to quash the Quit India Movement. Thirty British battalions were deployed in the sub-continent on internal security duties. Bose recognised a better opportunity to carry on the fight closer to home. Leaving Europe, he travelled by submarine to Sumatra and thence to Japan.

In July 1943, Bose arrived in Singapore to revitalise the independence struggle. The first INA under Mohan Singh had become moribund due to disagreements with the Japanese over its role. Mohan Singh himself was exiled to Pulau Ubin. A mass rally was held on the Padang. Bose had the gift of oratory. He exuded magnetism. He worked up the crowd to a fever pitch. "Our task will not end until our surviving heroes hold the victory parade on the graveyard of the British Empire - the Lal Qila, the Red Fort of Delhi! Chalo Delhi! On to Delhi!" he declared.

The crowd responded rapturously: "Azad Hind zindabad! Long live Free India!" The Indians called him Netaji, the beloved leader. Among that crowd was the late president S R Nathan, who told me once in conversation how electrifying Netaji was.

On Oct 21, 1943, the Provisional Government of Free India, Azri Hukumat-e-Azad Hind, was proclaimed in the Cathay Building. The INA was to be the instrument for freeing India from British rule. Netaji did not want an army consisting only of POWs. He urged Indians in Malaya and Burma to volunteer. Many of the recruits for the INA came from Singapore. Like it or not, the Azad Hind Fauj is part of our history.

The INA saw action in Burma, where it was decimated at Imphal. When the war ended, the returning British destroyed the INA monument at the Esplanade. To them, the members of the INA were renegades. Three senior officers - Shah Nawaz Khan, Prem Saghal and Gurbaksh Singh Dhillon - were put on trial at the Red Fort in Delhi at the end of 1945. They were charged with waging war against the King-Emperor. Among counsel for the defence was Nehru. There were demonstrations in India. The three accused were convicted, but the sentences were remitted and they were released. India was in ferment. In January 1947, India became independent.

Bose did not live to see this. He reportedly died in a plane crash in Taiwan on Aug 18, 1945. To the British, he was a traitor. But in his home country, he is considered to be hero enough for Kolkata's airport to be named the Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport.

HUMAN SIDE OF THE OCCUPATION

In Singapore, memories of the war and Occupation still stir up strong emotions, as the unhappiness over the naming of the Syonan Gallery demonstrates. The atrocities committed by the Japanese Army and Kempeitai are well-documented: the Faculty of Law of the National University of Singapore has set up a Singapore War Crimes Trials portal containing details of the trials. The Sook Ching massacres and the extortion of a $50 million "donation" from the Chinese community left indelible scars.

However, it would be a mistake to view this period only from a single perspective. For many people in occupied Singapore, it probably made little difference whether they were ruled by the British King-Emperor or the Japanese Syowa Emperor. The new rulers did not treat all their subjects equally. The Malays and especially the Indians were courted. The Chinese were persecuted.

Nor were all Japanese uniformly bad. Shinozaki Marmoru, a Japanese civilian official, gave out passes to many who had been caught up in the Sook Ching operation and later assisted people in Singapore to mitigate the rigours of the Occupation. There were also many who found that their Japanese superiors were human, and even humane; former president Nathan was one. My father-in-law was another.

My uncle, Professor Kiang Ai Kim, said in an oral history interview that the Occupation was not as oppressive as is normally depicted; as long as one kept out of politics, the Japanese authorities left people alone.

These voices were muted after the Japanese surrender in 1945: firstly out of fear of communist death squads which ran riot in the interregnum between the surrender in August and the return of the British in September; secondly, in order to avoid being accused by the colonial rulers of collaboration with the enemy, as some community leaders had been.

ROOTS OF ETHNIC SUSPICION

The legacy of ethnic suspicion between the Chinese and Malay communities in Malaya has its roots in the period of the Occupation. The main resistance to the Japanese came from the Chinese community. Contrary to the misconceptions of Occidentally-oriented writers, politicians and historians, the war in Asia did not begin when Pearl Harbour was attacked in December 1942. China had been fighting Japanese aggression since 1937. Japanese persecution of the Chinese in Malaya and Singapore was a continuation of that war, as was the resistance mounted by the Malayan Peoples' Anti-Japanese Army (MPAJA), which was overwhelmingly Chinese in composition.

When the Japanese surrendered, the MPAJA came out of the jungle and exacted retribution on "collaborators", who were often Malays and Indians. There were Chinese-Malay clashes in the peninsula. Fear of being sold out by the British to the Chinese led to the rise of ethnic-Malay nationalism, which continues until today and occasionally roils our bilateral relations with our closest neighbour.

When they saw that the war was lost, the Japanese encouraged nationalism in the former European colonies, not only in Malaya but also in the Dutch East Indies. This is not to accept the revisionist view of Japanese ultra-nationalists, disturbingly expressed in the museum at the Yasukuni Shrine, that Japan gave freedom to the colonised peoples of Asia. The independence of India and Indonesia was not a Japanese war aim; it was a side-effect of Japan's defeat.

If Japan had won, Singapore, Malaya and Indonesia would have remained under Japanese rule like Shantung and the Caroline, Marshall and Mariana Islands which had been taken over from Germany after World War I. In a supreme irony, the British used Indian troops to help restore Dutch colonial rule in Indonesia in late 1945.

The antipathy against the British of the generation that fought to expel the Dutch no doubt contributed much to their opposition to the formation of Malaysia and the undeclared war known as Konfrontasi.

Even today, memories of Konfrontasi can disturb our relations with our neighbour, as demonstrated by the controversy over the naming of an Indonesian frigate after two marines who were responsible for the MacDonald House bombing.

CHINA-JAPAN TIES

The most significant legacy of the war is the fraught relationship between the People's Republic of China (PRC) and Japan. After the Meiji Restoration, the Japanese learnt from the Western colonial powers that they could gain respect only if they had colonies, Taiwan was annexed after the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-95; Manchukuo was prised from China in 1932; and in 1937, full-scale war broke out when Japan invaded.

The West has not recognised the sacrifices that China made during that period from 1939-45, nor China's contribution to the ultimate victory. Had the millions of troops and auxiliaries tied down in China been available for an invasion of India, with the support of the INA, the world would look very different today.

As a great and ancient nation, China deserves and demands respect. China is returning to its historic position in the world after a century of humiliation. The arguments over specks of land in the East China Sea are part of that process of adjustment.

History makes the dispute between China and Japan over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands so much more intractable. If, heaven forbid, hostilities were to break out, where would Singaporeans stand - especially if the PRC evokes the memory of the war and demands that ethnic Chinese take their side against a historic enemy?

Three-quarters of a century may have elapsed since the fall of Singapore, but we still feel the reverberations of that fall today. It started a process that led to the creation of the world we live in now.

History is not just for historians. In order to unpick the knotty problems that face us in the 21st century, it is vital to know how those knots got tied in the first place and to take a dispassionate and nuanced view of a period that still evokes strong passions.

The writer is Chairman, Society of International Law (Singapore) and author of The Devil To Pay, The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea and The Devil's Circle, novels set in the period from the invasion of Malaya in 1941 to the aftermath of the Japanese surrender in 1945.

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Chestnut Nature Park, Singapore's largest nature park, offers separate trails for bikers and hikers

February 27, 2017, 3:47 am

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By Abigail Ng WY, The Sunday Times, 26 Feb 2017

Mountain biker Melvin Ee, 44, used to be limited to a 1.6km trail at Chestnut Nature Park, next to the Central Catchment Nature Reserve.

With the official opening of the northern section of the park yesterday, the mountain bike trail is now 8.2km.

Chestnut Nature Park has expanded from 17ha to 81ha - equivalent to more than 110 football fields - making it the largest nature park in Singapore.



Besides the longer mountain biking trail, the hiking trail is now 5.6km, up from 2.1km.

National Parks Board (NParks) classifies most sections of the biking trail as moderately difficult to extremely difficult. "They're less technical than the ones at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve," said Dr Ee.

Chestnut is the only park with separate trails for bikers and hikers. It also has Singapore's first pump track for stunt bikers.

Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development Desmond Lee officiated the opening yesterday.

He said the park is one of five buffer parks to protect the Central Catchment Nature Reserve from urbanisation impact. Two more parks, Windsor and Thomson, will be opened in future.

Why Singapore needs more naysayers

February 27, 2017, 4:08 am

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By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 25 Feb 2017

Singapore needs more people to speak up and challenge authority, said a panel of academics and former senior civil servants yesterday.

They lamented the reluctance of civil servants to pose contrarian views when facing political office-holders, and the reticence of university students in asking questions at conferences.

But this ability to question views and policies is vital if Singapore is to do well in the next 50 years, said the speakers at a one-day forum with the theme of unintended consequences in Singapore.

Said Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy dean Kishore Mahbubani, 68: "We need more naysayers."

He argued that Singapore cannot take its formulas for success developed over the last 50 years and apply them to the next 50 years, as the world has changed drastically.

"We need to create new formulas, which you can't until you attack and challenge every sacred cow. Then you can succeed," he added.

Panellist and behavioural scientist David Chan jokingly addressed civil servants in the audience, saying: "You talk so much to me but when the minister is present, in front of him, you're absolutely silent."

This habit stems partly from a fear of looking bad in front of others and of failing, added Prof Chan, 50.

He heads the Singapore Management University (SMU) Behavioural Sciences Institute, which organised the conference that was attended by 350 people.

Mr Han Fook Kwang, 63, the editor-at-large of The Straits Times, said Singapore became so successful in such a short time that its people became too risk-averse.

For instance, policymakers are unwilling to take bigger risks with policies and fear that making major mistakes will cause Singapore to lose it all, he added.

But it is in policies and leadership teams that Singapore needs people willing to challenge authority, said Professor Chan Heng Chee, who is in her 70s and chairs the Singapore University of Technology and Design's Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities.

She called for more robust internal discussions on policies with a wider range of people from different backgrounds, adding: "We need naysayers in leadership teams who can think the unthinkable."

Panellists also noted that Singaporean audiences tended not to ask questions at conferences, unlike people overseas, whose hands would shoot up as soon as academics finished their lectures.

In response, audience member and National University of Singapore sociologist Paulin Straughan said "the art of asking critical questions" can be developed in people.

SMU, for instance, grades undergraduates by how much they participate in class.

Above all, Ambassador-at-Large Tommy Koh, 79, felt that differing points of view should be valued.

He said: "When we appoint people to boards, we can also appoint challengers who are subversive and who have alternative points of view. That's the kind of cultural change we want to see. It makes Singapore stronger, not weaker."

Get rid of blind spots to see way forward: Nanyang Business School Dean
Organisations can't rely on past experience, says Civil Service College fellow at conference
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 25 Feb 2017

The setting up of the Municipal Services Office (MSO) to improve inter-government agency cooperation in municipal issues embarrassed Nanyang Business School dean Neo Boon Siong.

Its formation in 2014 was the "clearest sign of how our agencies cannot work together to solve simple municipal problems", he said.

Professor Neo, who is also a fellow at the Civil Service College, pointed out in a speech that Singapore's past success may hamper its ability to deal with the challenges of a fast-changing world.

He said public and private organisations have developed blind spots on what can or cannot be challenged, and this has the unintentional consequence of diminishing their capacity to deal with uncertainty and disruption.

"I think we are losing our capacity to think ahead... We have a long way to go in developing our ability to think across boundaries and to innovate," Prof Neo said at a conference organised by the Singapore Management University's Behavioural Sciences Institute with the theme "Unintended consequences in Singapore''.

He and other speakers at the conference gave their views on how Singapore will deal with uncertainty in a range of areas, from the impact of the country's adoption of technology in its push to become a smart nation to how the private and public sectors respond to change.

The MSO, Prof Neo noted, was the outcome of the "silo system" of statutory boards - each with its own clear focus and mission - that Singapore has created.

The country's approach of setting up statutory boards has achieved tremendous results in the past, he said, highlighting how the Housing Board and Economic Development Board created housing and jobs in the early years.

It has set up a number of such boards in recent years, he noted.

But as problems become more complex, they may no longer fall neatly into the functional role a typical statutory board may have.

What might have worked in the past may not always be the best way forward, added Prof Neo.

Singapore must, in its public and private sectors, look not just at efficiency but also at innovation, he said, citing the Monetary Authority of Singapore's approach towards financial technology as an example.

It has created a "regulatory sandbox", which provides a safe space where Singapore's banks can experiment with and test new technology, without potentially affecting their main operations or customers, even if the project fails.

This is a different approach from the regulation he has seen in many parts of the Government, he said.

"I think it's acceptance and acknowledgement that pathways forward cannot be based on past experience, and no matter how experienced (the Government) is, it's not going to be adequate because we're charting paths that we've not taken before, and are relatively unknown," he added.

PM Lee Hsien Loong at the Camp Sequoia Dialogue on 24 Feb 2017

February 27, 2017, 6:02 am

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Singapore can do much more when it comes to adopting new technology: PM Lee
He says it's an area where Singapore has an edge, outlines vision of how it can improve life here
By Royston Sim, Assistant Political Editor, The Straits Times, 27 Feb 2017

Singaporeans can expect a national digital identity, cashless payments in hawker centres and a transport system that is more responsive to changes in demand in the near future.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong sketched out this vision of how he sees technology playing a greater role in improving life here at a recent closed-door dialogue, of which his office released a transcript yesterday.

And there is a lot more that government, businesses and people can do to seize the opportunities new technology creates, he added.

The need to innovate and build strong digital capabilities is a key strategy of the Committee on the Future Economy (CFE), which released its report this month, and the Budget contained several measures to help on this front.

Ministers will elaborate on these plans when Parliament debates the Budget this week and the next.

Implementation will be key, Mr Lee said. Technology is a key focus because, while there are manpower and space constraints, "in terms of ideas, productivity, breakthroughs, the constraint is only what the human mind can come up with, what people can organise and deliver".

Mr Lee's dialogue last Friday with 150 start-up founders and guests from across the Asia-Pacific region was part of Camp Sequoia, an annual tech summit organised by venture capital firm Sequoia Capital India.

He said technology is an area Singapore has an advantage in, as a compact city with high-quality infrastructure and tech-savvy people.

Its Smart Nation Programme Office was set up to spearhead the use of technology and key projects that "will make a big difference to the way Singapore is able to operate". Mr Lee added: "I think personally that, for all our pushing, we really are not moving as fast as we ought to."

He outlined several other projects under way, including a national sensor network that pulls together pictures from cameras monitoring traffic, drains and housing estates into an integrated data source.

As for a national digital ID system, he cited how Estonia has a digital access card for all secure e-services, including national health insurance, bank accounts, making digital signatures and Internet voting.

"There are a lot of things that we can do individually, as a government, as a nation, and also for companies - to be participating, to come here, set up and use Singapore as a place to start up," he said.

Asked which policies had the most impact in fostering start-ups here, Mr Lee listed four strategies:

• Creating a pro-business environment where companies can set up shop easily.

• Creating an ecosystem to support start-ups, from having incubators to encouraging venture capitalists and angel investors to invest.



• Being open to foreign talent. "It does not mean that there is no wary observation by Singaporeans: Who is coming in, are they real talent or not, are there too many or not? But we do make ourselves open to talent, and that is critical," he said.

• Producing people with technological know-how by focusing on science, technology, engineering and mathematics subjects.

The CFE has recommended a Global Innovation Network for young people to gain exposure to start-ups abroad and be inspired to start their own things, Mr Lee noted. "The problem is not lack of resources from the Government. Really what is needed is the talent, the drive. And we just have to get out of the way and enable you to do that," he said.



Mr Lee noted that Singapore has built up trust between its Government and people because economic growth has benefited most people.



But as the economy slows, the Government has to convince people to work together to attain 2 to 3 per cent growth, which is good by any international standard, he added.

For if society splits, "Singapore would become a very unhappy and much, much less successful place. It is our responsibility as a government to have policies which will not let that happen," he said.

Leaders must remain open to other views: PM Lee Hsien Loong
He stresses importance of having people able to improve on ideas or provide new ones
By Royston Sim, Assistant Political Editor, The Straits Times, 27 Feb 2017

It is important for leaders to not be surrounded by "yes men" who paint only a positive picture, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said.

Rather, they need people with their own views who can improve on ideas or provide new ones, he said at a dialogue session last Friday.

Mr Lee was asked by a participant how he remains honest to himself and aware of his shortcomings, if he is surrounded by people who might constantly agree with him.

"If all you have are people who say 'three bags full, sir', then soon you start to believe them and that is disastrous," Mr Lee said.

"You need people who have their own views, whose views you respect, whom you can have a productive disagreement with, and work out ideas which you might not have come up with, or who improve on ideas you had."



When making policies, one also has to break out of the circle of common viewpoints, perceive how ordinary people will respond to those schemes and acknowledge the limitations, he said.

"You have to have a sense of what it looks like not from the point of view of the policymaker, but from the point of view of those who are at the receiving end of your policies," he said at the dialogue, a transcript of which was released by his office yesterday.

It is also important to remain open to the possibility of being wrong, Mr Lee told over 150 innovators and disruptors from across the Asia-Pacific at Camp Sequoia, an annual technology summit organised by venture capital firm Sequoia Capital India.

"If the person tells you something, what makes him say that? You may find that after thinking it over for a day or two, he has a point and you have to find some way to accommodate that and acknowledge that you were mistaken," he said.



Asked by dialogue moderator Shailendra Singh, Sequoia's managing director, for his philosophies on leading a country, Mr Lee said: "The most important philosophy is not to take yourself or your philosophy too seriously. If you think you have found a formula to succeed, somewhere in there you are going to fail."



Mr Lee added it is important to take in other views, and know when to accept them and when not to.

"You must be able to work with people, take views, take criticisms, change your views, even change your decisions, and then collectively find a way forward, which is collective - and yet where your fingerprint or thumbprint is somewhere inside there. It is very hard. Because if you just lead by consensus, then a bot can do it. But if you just charge ahead alone, you may find that nobody is following you," he said.

Mr Singh followed up with a question on how Mr Lee managed imperfections that he sees, and how he manages change as a leader.

Mr Lee elaborated on how Singapore built up its armed forces, liberalised its banking industry, set up a statutory board for tax collection and privatised the telecommunications sector.



To transform the Singapore Armed Forces, the Government attracted scholarship holders who could take up leadership roles. Many were sceptical but, over time, saw that the scholarship holders could deliver better results, and the move resulted in a professional, competent, technologically up-to-date and credible outfit.

Recalling how tax collection was slow and inefficient in the past when the Inland Revenue Department was part of the Finance Ministry, Mr Lee said the decision was made to free up the organisation so it had autonomy to recruit staff, computerise and improve procedures.

Change is always hard and there is never a final position, he said, but countries that do not change will become increasingly out of touch, and unable to function.

Another participant asked Mr Lee what Singapore would be like in 20 years' time. The Prime Minister said this was "the most difficult question to answer", as Singapore is already an advanced country and "there is no model to follow".

There is, however, plenty of potential to change and rebuild.



He noted that Paya Lebar Airbase will be relocated to Changi from 2030. Flight paths in that area had constrained developments down to Marina Bay, he said. "The airbase area will be opened up. It is probably the size of two or three new towns and the whole of the eastern half of Singapore can be redeveloped."

Should the current peace endure, the population then will have experienced stability and progress for all of their lives, he noted.

"The challenge would be for them to still have that drive to want to make things better, to want to be at the leading edge," he added.

PM Lee on CFE, what keeps him up and what's on his Internet browser
Here are edited extracts of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's responses to various questions at the Camp Sequoia discussion last week.
The Straits Times, 27 Feb 2017


ON THE OUTLOOK FOR SINGAPORE

It is a challenging time for a country like Singapore, trying to find an economic strategy which will work for an economy, for a nation, not just for companies in it, but for the population and for citizens.

We are doing our own think exercise. We produced a report by the Committee on the Future Economy (CFE), which came out a couple of weeks ago. We had the Budget this week, which set out some of the strategies to realise the ideas we have. None of them is rocket science. The key is whether or not you can make it happen. And to make it happen faster than others, execute and bring everybody on board and see that this is the right strategy, which will work and which will benefit everybody.

(Technology) is in fact one of our areas of focus. In terms of physical growth, numbers, space, we reach constraints. But in terms of ideas, productivity, breakthroughs, the constraint is only what the human mind can come up with, what people can organise and deliver.



ON WHAT KEEPS HIM AWAKE AT NIGHT

Some of the things which keep you up at night, you cannot do anything about. We spent a lot of time worrying about the United States presidential election. There are other things which can go bump in the night because we are in uncharted waters.

There is a major change of direction in the United States. Other powers will react and how does that interaction work out? If it is a rebalancing, that is manageable. If it is destabilisation, you do not know what the consequences are. That is one big global uncertainty.



Within the region, we also watch very carefully the trends and our neighbouring countries. Whether they are focused on regional cooperation and integration, or whether their focus is on economic nationalism - like the mood in the United States and the developed countries...

We also have to watch our own domestic population trends, our demographic trends. That worries us a great deal and, again, it is something with no easy solution. Our birth rate is too low...



ON AMERICA'S PROTECTIONIST TURN

The Trans-Pacific Partnership is off. It is a great pity and it is a setback. We have to continue to pursue free trade with the other partners, which we will. And we hope that America, even under this administration, will in its own way seek to deepen its links with Asia, Europe and China. And in time, the mood in America will change, become again more confident and more open.











ON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS FOR POTENTIAL MINISTERS OR MPS

We ask what they read so we get some sense of what their interests are. We ask what they have been doing outside of their work so we see whether they have an interest in social issues, whether they have an interest in helping people. We ask what policy issues they care about and have a view on and would like the Government to change. That is usually the question which they find the hardest to answer because they are not sure whether to tell us that we are dead wrong on something or other. But if they give us a good answer, we give them very high marks.



ON WHAT HE DOES ON THE INTERNET

I have on my desktop the news websites open: BBC, The New York Times, The Straits Times, Channel NewsAsia. They are there all the time. Because of that, I do not watch the television news any more. If you want to see the snippet, it is there all the time. I have Facebook open and Instagram, because I have accounts.



I track what is happening to my posts, what people are saying and whether we have to respond to it or not. It is quite useful because without those, I would not reach out to significant segments of the population, here and overseas. It is also fun, if you do not become addicted to it.

What other websites do I go to? I look at a page called Astronomy Picture of the Day. Every day, there is a picture, a nebula, a supernova, the Sun, rings of Saturn, something like that. I sometimes look at blogs by mathematicians to track what they are doing...

I look at photography websites because I take pictures. You pick up ideas looking at what people do, how they take the pictures.

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Dialogue with PM Lee Hsien Loong at Camp Sequoia

Singapore building up next generation of ties with China

March 1, 2017, 12:27 am

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13th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) Meetings in Beijing
Forward-looking relationship seen in presence of younger ministers at key meeting: DPM Teo
By Goh Sui Noi, China Bureau Chief In Beijing, The Straits Times, 28 Feb 2017

The relationship between Singapore and China is not just deep and broad-based - it is also forward-looking, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean has said.

That Singapore has sent a delegation which includes a number of younger ministers "shows the forward-looking nature of the relationship that we are building with China", Mr Teo told Singapore reporters at the end of a high-level meeting in Beijing yesterday.

"We brought younger ministers along so that they can continue the relationship that was built by our senior leaders, Mr Deng Xiaoping and Mr Lee Kuan Yew, through the generations," said Mr Teo, who is also the Coordinating Minister for National Security.

"We had the opportunity also to meet some of the new Chinese ministers," he added.

Mr Teo noted that Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli, with whom he co-chaired yesterday's meetings, was happy to see a new generation of ministers, mayors and party secretaries on his side, and younger ministers on the Singapore side. This new generation is "now continuing with this very longstanding relationship, which will take the relationship further, from strength to strength, into the future", he said.

Xinhua news agency yesterday quoted Mr Zhang as saying that China and Singapore agreed to further synergise development strategies and deepen mutually beneficial cooperation to advance their ties.

"China attaches great importance to developing relations with Singapore and is willing to make joint efforts with the country to sincerely implement the consensus reached by leaders on both sides," Xinhua quoted Mr Zhang as saying.

On yesterday's meetings, including the 13th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC), a high-level platform to find ways to deepen and broaden the Singapore-China relationship, Mr Teo said they were good, with practical outcomes.

These were demonstrated by the four memorandums of understanding signed yesterday and 15 agreements on Sunday, linked to the three government-to-government projects, the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative (CCI), Tianjin Eco-City (TEC) and Suzhou Industrial Park.

Mr Teo and Mr Zhang also presided over the meetings of the joint steering councils for the three government-led projects.

On the CCI, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Chan Chun Sing, who is in charge of the project, said yesterday that while it has deepened and is continuing to grow in different dimensions, "the good efforts must not stay only in Chongqing", but "be able to be replicated in other parts beyond Chongqing".

Likewise, Mr Lawrence Wong, Minister for National Development who oversees the TEC project, underscored the importance of sharing the lessons of the eco-city with other cities in China. If the learning experience of the eco-city is documented, then it "can also play a useful role in contributing to China's urban development", he said.

The two ministers were at the media briefing yesterday.

Asked about the state of bilateral relations, Mr Teo said "even among the best of neighbours and friends, from time to time, there will be differences in perception" because of size, difference in geographical area, interests and vulnerabilities.

"I think we need to recognise that, and both countries recognise that. But the very broad and deep (nature) of cooperation which we have in many areas, I think, came through clearly during our meetings and this is what we focused on, and how to take this relationship forward."

Singapore, China ink pacts to deepen cooperation in bilateral projects
DPM Teo and his Chinese counterpart discuss projects' progress, future directions
By Chong Koh Ping, China Correspondent In Beijing, The Straits Times, 28 Feb 2017

Singapore and China have signed four cooperation pacts, including one for each of the three government-led projects, a day after inking 15 agreements on mainly commercial deals.

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and Chinese Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli witnessed the signing ceremony yesterday after they reviewed the progress made in the three bilateral flagship projects and discussed the direction of future bilateral cooperation.

The four agreements included cooperation in intellectual property rights protection, furthering collaboration in the biomedical industry, and the development of a transport and logistics hub.They are:

SUZHOU INDUSTRIAL PARK (SIP)

A letter of intent was signed by its Administrative Committee, the National University of Singapore and the Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology to deepen cooperation in the biomedical industry. The SIP, the first of three joint government projects, was started in 1994.

TIANJIN ECO-CITY

Singapore's National Development Ministry and China's Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development agreed to form a joint expert panel to exchange ideas, and advise on how the city can continue to develop in a sustainable manner. The panel will comprise experts from the government, private sector, academic institutions and research organisations.

The 30 sq km green township development broke ground in 2008. It now has a population of 70,000 and 4,500 registered companies.

CHONGQING CONNECTIVITY INITIATIVE

For this project, announced in November 2015, IE Singapore and the Chongqing municipal government signed a memorandum of understanding to facilitate the implementation of two commercial projects aimed at improving Chongqing's transport links to South-east Asia and Central Asia.

FOURTH AGREEMENT

A fourth agreement signed between intellectual property rights agencies from both countries and the Guangdong provincial government will help facilitate the growth of innovation-driven companies.

It will leverage the strategic location of the intellectual property reform pilot zone in the Guangzhou Knowledge City. Started in 2011, the private sector-led and government-supported project aims to develop high-tech industries in Guangdong.

On Sunday, Singapore agencies signed five agreements with Tianjin Eco-City to develop infrastructure and services. Companies from both countries also formalised 10 commercial deals in Chongqing.

Worth around US$1.4 billion (S$1.97 billion), the deals cover transport and logistics, information and communications technology, finance and healthcare.

Vivian meets Wang Yi for third time in two months
By Chong Koh Ping, China Correspondent In Beijing, The Straits Times, 28 Feb 2017

BEIJING • Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan's meeting with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi yesterday was their third this year, a fact highlighted by Mr Wang.



The two ministers met on the sidelines of the 13th round of the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) in Beijing.

They met last month at the World Economic Forum in the resort town of Davos in Switzerland.

They saw each other again earlier this month at the G-20 foreign ministers' meeting in Bonn, Germany.

"I think this is normal because it is important for Singapore and China to keep in touch on many multilateral issues," Mr Wang said at the meeting held at the Foreign Affairs Ministry.

He added: "I hope both sides can work doubly hard, through the actual actions of our cooperation, to fully embody the characterisation of the bilateral relationship that we share, which is 'an all-round cooperative partnership progressing with the times'."

Agreeing, Dr Balakrishnan noted he visited China four times last year.

"We will see how many times I will come to China," he quipped, adding that he always looks forward to visiting the country. The meeting, which was slated for 30 minutes, lasted about an hour.



Dr Balakrishnan is in Beijing as part of Singapore's delegation for the JCBC, a high-level annual meeting begun in 2004 to discuss ways to deepen and broaden ties between Singapore and China.

Earlier yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and Chinese Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli co-chaired the meeting at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

Dr Balakrishnan told Mr Wang the JCBC reviews a wide range of government-to-government projects as well as other areas of cooperation.

"All the projects are doing very well," he added.

Dr Balakrishnan also met Mr Song Tao, head of the International Liaison Department of the Chinese Communist Party, yesterday.

Strong ties with China outweigh differences: DPM Teo Chee Hean
Both sides share similar views on most issues and work well to advance common interests, says Teo Chee Hean
By Goh Sui Noi, China Bureau Chief In Beijing, The Straits Times, 27 Feb 2017

Singapore and China have a broad and longstanding relationship and their common interest in building a peaceful region is "much greater" than their occasional differences of views, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean has said.

"We share similar views on most issues, and have worked well together to advance these common interests," he told Chinese news agency Xinhua in an e-mail interview ahead of his visit to Beijing that started yesterday.

"But even among close neighbours and friends, there may be different perspectives on some issues, given that countries have different size, history, vulnerabilities, and geographical location," he added.

He was replying to a question on recent "frictions" in Sino-Singapore relations "at the government and people-to-people level". He was also asked how the two sides could work together to enhance mutual trust.

"Singapore will continue to be a strong supporter of China's peaceful development and constructive engagement in the region," he said.

Last September, there was an exchange of letters between Singapore's Ambassador to China, Mr Stanley Loh, and Mr Hu Xijin, the editor of Chinese newspaper Global Times, after the latter published a report criticising Singapore's diplomats for raising the South China Sea issue at the Non-Aligned Movement summit in Venezuela.

In November, Hong Kong Customs detained nine Singapore Armed Forces armoured vehicles on board a container ship transiting there.

They were bound for Singapore after a military exercise in Taiwan.

In referring to progress in the bilateral relationship, Mr Teo also said that Singapore has consistently abided by its "one China" policy. Singapore has formal diplomatic ties with China but also informal ties with Taiwan.

On Singapore's role as country coordinator for Asean-China cooperation, he said the Republic will do its best to strengthen and deepen cooperation between the two sides. However, he also noted that it was not easy to reach a consensus on every issue among the 10 members of Asean and China.

"What is important is to maintain close communication so that we can expand on our common interests and reduce differences," he added.

Mr Teo was also asked about Singapore's role in China's initiative for a modern-day maritime Silk Road to link economically countries along the sea route from China to South-east Asia and the Middle East.

He said Singapore, as a key hub for trade and infrastructure financing and one of the largest offshore yuan centres, was well-placed to support the growing number of Chinese firms venturing into markets along the Belt and Road, in reference also to the land route from China to the West, referred to as the Belt.

"There are many opportunities for Singapore and Chinese companies to work together on the "Belt and Road" projects in areas such as transport and logistics, mixed-use park developments, construction materials and financing," he said.

Mr Teo is in Beijing for the 13th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation, a high-level platform for deepening and broadening ties between the two sides that he co-chairs with Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli and which takes place today.

Chongqing free trade zone offers possibilities for new tie-ups: Chan Chun Sing
By Chong Koh Ping, China Correspondent In Beijing, The Straits Times, 27 Feb 2017

Singapore and Chongqing can take advantage of the Chinese city's free trade zone (FTZ) and explore cooperation in new areas, said Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Chan Chun Sing yesterday.

He was speaking on the sidelines of a ministerial dialogue with the Singaporean community in Beijing after he witnessed the signing ceremony for 10 commercial pacts between Singapore and Chongqing companies as part of the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative (CCI).

The total value of the 10 deals is about US$1.4 billion (S$2 billion).

The CCI is Singapore and China's third joint project, started in November 2015, after Suzhou Industrial Park and Tianjin Eco-City. The CCI project aims to help drive growth in China's less developed western region by improving Chongqing's transport and services links to the region and beyond.



Mr Chan said Singapore and Chongqing could look to cooperate in new areas such as the medical, education, precision engineering and infrastructure sectors under the FTZ.

"We could link up the CCI concept with the new FTZ concept, and we are excited by this," said Mr Chan.

In an e-mail interview with China's Xinhua news agency yesterday, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said that much progress has been achieved in the CCI project.

In financial services, more than US$6 billion worth of cross-border deals have been agreed on and completed, helping Chongqing-based companies to access cost-efficient funding in Singapore, he said.

Both sides are in talks to develop a new direct trade route that will connect Chongqing to South-east Asia via the Beibu Gulf - also known as the Tonkin Gulf - in southern Guangxi.

A Singapore-Chongqing Digital Super Highway that promises greater high-speed information technology connectivity between western China and South-east Asia is also in the works, he added.

As part of yesterday's commercial signings, two new projects to expand Chongqing's transport links to South-east Asia and Central Asia were launched.

Known as the Chongqing Logistics Development Platform (CLDP) and the Multi-Modal Distribution and Connectivity Centre (DC), the two projects are born out of the Transport and Logistics Masterplan for the CCI.

The CLDP, a company set up to do logistics planning, will develop standards and best practices for the transport and logistics industry. The DC is a logistics hub that caters to different transport modes, such as river, rail, air and road, said IE Singapore.

IE Singapore will form a work group with the Chongqing municipal government to oversee and support the roll-out of these two projects.

"We hope that the two projects will serve as a model for future cooperation and play a leading role in spearheading other similar projects," said Mr Tang Zongwei, chairman of the Chongqing Liangjiang New Area Development and Investment Group.

The company is participating in both projects together with other Singapore and Chongqing players.

Mr Teo Siong Seng, managing director of Singapore company Pacific International Lines, which is another signatory to both projects, said: "It is also notable that the projects bring together leading players in both Singapore and Chongqing, who would otherwise be competitors (in the transport and logistics industry)."

Mr Teo is also chairman of the Singapore Business Federation and an industry adviser to the CCI.

The other eight agreements signed yesterday cover areas in transport and logistics, information and communication technology, finance and healthcare.

New initiatives to deepen Singapore-China friendship
The Straits Times, 27 Feb 2017

In a written interview with China's Xinhua news agency for the 13th Singapore-China Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation meeting, DPM Teo Chee Hean takes stock of Sino-Singapore relations, and the future of bilateral ties

Xinhuanet: During your visit to China, you'll co-chair the 13th Singapore-China Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation. What's your expectation of the visit?

DPM: I am pleased to be in Beijing to co-chair the 13th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) with Vice-Premier Zhang Gaoli. The JCBC is the premier platform for Singapore-China bilateral relations. Since its establishment in 2004, the JCBC has played a key role in nurturing the special friendship and promoting closer cooperation between our two countries. At every JCBC, we review the wide-ranging areas of cooperation, including business and trade, financial services, inclusive and sustainable development, human resource development and people-to-people exchanges, and agree on initiatives to strengthen and deepen our broad-based bilateral relations.

This year, apart from reviewing the progress of our first two bilateral government-to-government projects at the 18th Suzhou Industrial Park (SIP) and the 9th Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City (SSTEC) Joint Steering Councils, Vice-Premier Zhang and I will also co-chair the inaugural Joint Steering Council (JSC) Meeting for the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative (CCI), our third bilateral government-to-government flagship project. Both countries have placed emphasis on the CCI as it is a key priority demonstration project under China's "Belt and Road", Western Region Development and Yangtze River Economic Belt Strategies. This was discussed when Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong met President Xi Jinping in Beijing in 2014, and launched by the two leaders during President Xi's state visit to Singapore in November 2015. Prime Minister Lee personally visited Chongqing in September 2016 to review the progress of our bilateral cooperation in the CCI.

The SIP continues to be at the forefront of China's reforms and plays a pathfinder role for China's economic priorities. I look forward to discussing with Vice-Premier Zhang how we can expand collaboration between Singapore and SIP in new areas such as research, innovation and intellectual property.

In line with our multi-faceted collaborations for the Tianjin Eco-City, we will be signing memorandums of understanding (MOUs) in areas such as knowledge exchange, water resource management, healthcare, smart city masterplanning and R&D collaboration in digital media. At the CCI JSC meeting, both sides will report the good progress made in the four priority sectors, namely financial services, civil aviation, modern logistics, and information and communications technology. The new Chongqing Transport and Logistics Master Plan will also strengthen and anchor Chongqing as an international hub for multi-modal logistics. The extensive agenda of the JCBC and the JSCs is a good reflection of the depth and breadth of Singapore-China bilateral cooperation. I look forward to fruitful and productive discussions on these important initiatives.


Xinhuanet: At the 12th JCBC on Oct 13, 2015, your discussions focused on six areas: the third government-to-government project, upgrade of the China-Singapore Free Trade Agreement (CSFTA), economic transition, financial cooperation, cultural exchanges, and inclusive and sustainable development. More than one year has passed since the third Sino-Singapore government-to-government project was launched. What's your comment on the project's achievement? Can you update us on the latest development of the bilateral cooperation in the other five areas?

DPM: We have achieved much progress in the focus areas for the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative since its launch in November 2015. In financial services, policy innovations have strengthened financial connectivity between Chongqing and Singapore to facilitate economic transformation of the Western Region. To date, more than US$6 billion (S$8.4 billion) worth of financial deals, including cross-border loans and bond issuances, have been agreed and completed, helping Chinese Chongqing-based corporates to access cost-efficient funding in Singapore.

Civil aviation connectivity between Singapore, Chongqing and beyond has also been significantly enhanced. Chinese airline West Air and Singapore airline SilkAir now serve the Singapore-Chongqing route with 14 flights a week.

West Air has also extended its daily Singapore-Chongqing service to Urumqi via Chongqing since September 2016. We are exploring more linkages between western China and South-east Asia/South-west Pacific via Chongqing and Singapore. We are also discussing a new direct trade route that would connect Chongqing to the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road overland via the Beibu Gulf and by sea to Singapore, and greater high-speed IT connectivity between western China and Southeast Asia with a Singapore-Chongqing Digital Super Highway.

We have also made good progress in the other areas of collaboration on the CSFTA upgrade, finance, economic transition, inclusive and sustainable development, and cultural exchanges.

On the CSFTA upgrade, our officials have made some progress over the two rounds of negotiations in 2016. We should work towards an expeditious conclusion of a substantive CSFTA upgrade. A forward-looking, substantive and comprehensive upgrade of the CSFTA will send a strong message that China and Singapore are jointly committed to developing deeper economic linkages and greater trade liberalisation. In January this year, President Xi made two important speeches at the World Economic Forum in Davos and the United Nations in Geneva. I fully support President Xi's statement that we should promote inclusive globalisation against the backdrop of a volatile and uncertain world. At the multilateral level, as the country coordinator of Asean-China Dialogue Relations, we will continue to work closely with China to advance multilateral liberalisation initiatives such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, with the aim of eventually achieving a Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific that will bring together countries around the Asia-Pacific for mutual collaboration and development.

In June 2016, our Monetary Authority of Singapore announced the inclusion of renminbi (RMB) investments as part of Singapore's official foreign reserves in recognition of the steady and calibrated liberalisation of China's financial markets, and the growing acceptance of RMB assets in the global portfolio of institutional investors. This year, both sides will further deepen capital market collaboration between China and Singapore.

We continue to have good exchanges on governance issues such as promoting inclusive and sustainable development and managing the social impact of economic transition and an ageing population, through our longstanding human resource development cooperation. I co-chair two platforms - the Leadership Forum with Central Organisation Department Minister Zhao Leji and the Social Governance Forum with Political and Legal Affairs Commission Secretary Meng Jianzhu. Since the mid-1990s, about 55,000 Chinese officials have attended various training programmes in Singapore. Increasing numbers of Singapore officials are also visiting China and exchanging views with our Chinese counterparts and learning from China's experiences. We face many common challenges and there is great value in learning from each other.

The Singapore-China Executive Programme on Cultural Cooperation has facilitated numerous cultural exchanges between our two countries. For instance, Beijing People's Art Theatre performances in Singapore have been well received. The National Gallery Singapore has worked with the National Art Museum of China on a joint exhibition. To mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Dr Sun Yat Sen last year, the Sun Yat Sen Nanyang Memorial Hall in Singapore collaborated with The Memorial of Wuchang Uprising of 1911 Revolution from Wuhan on the exhibition One Night in Wuchang: 1911 Revolution & Nanyang, which I had the pleasure to open.


Xinhuanet: How would you evaluate Singapore-China economic relations? What new measures will Singapore undertake at all levels to promote bilateral economic relations?

DPM: In 2015, to mark the 25th anniversary of our bilateral relations, President Tony Tan made a state visit to China and President Xi made a state visit to Singapore, taking relations to new heights. 2017 marks the 27th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and China. Our bilateral cooperation has grown by leaps and bounds. Singapore has been China's largest foreign investor since 2013. China is also Singapore's top trading partner.

We have been a partner of China's integration with the global community, including accession into the World Trade Organisation in 2001, recognition of China as a market economy since 2004, participation in the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (Apec) and establishment of dialogue partnership with Asean. Singapore was also one of the earliest supporters of the establishment of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank.

As our economies undergo transformation and restructuring, both sides can connect our economies in new areas such as digital economy and innovation. To strengthen economic and business cooperation at the local level, we have established seven Provincial Business Councils with Guangdong, Liaoning, Shandong, Tianjin, Sichuan, Jiangsu and Zhejiang. These councils are co-chaired by the younger Singapore ministers and vice-ministers, and the governors and vice-governors of the respective provinces. Through these councils, we will continue to work on mutually beneficial projects that fit the respective province's overall development strategies. We also hope that our younger ministers can build lasting friendships with their Chinese counterparts.


Xinhuanet: Based on the existing economic cooperation and trade between the two countries, how will the two sides further promote cooperation in social governance, sustainable development and cultural exchanges? Which areas have the greatest potential?

DPM: The characterisation of our relationship as an "all-round cooperative partnership progressing with the times" reflects the depth, breadth and strength of our bilateral ties, and the bright prospects for the future. It highlights the constantly progressing nature of our bilateral cooperation in tandem with our changing needs and interests. We have consistently abided by our "One China" policy, and facilitated the landmark Wang-Koo talks in 1993 and the historic Xi-Ma meeting in Singapore in 2015. Singapore has been a consistent friend and supporter of China's peaceful development. Each of our government-to-government projects, namely the Suzhou Industrial Park, the Tianjin Eco-City, and the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative, and major platforms such as the Leadership Forum and Social Governance Forum, have supported China's developmental priorities at key stages.

Our bilateral people-to-people relations have always been strong. There are many regular exchanges in cultural, educational, scientific and other areas between our two countries. In 2015, in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of bilateral relations, the Singapore Embassy and Singapore companies in China raised almost four million yuan (S$818,500) to build three primary school hostels in the earthquake-hit Ludian county in Yunnan province. The construction of the hostels has now been completed, and Ludian students will be able to use them very soon. The close people-to-people ties were also seen through the generous donation of US$25 million by Singaporeans to assist those affected by the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. We are a small country, but we have been a reliable and longstanding friend of China, even in times of need.

There is much room for further cooperation on the "Belt and Road" initiative. Both sides have agreed that beginning from this year, cooperation on the "Belt and Road" initiative will be included as a key item on the JCBC agenda.

Singapore-China relations have always been supported by a high degree of mutual trust at all levels, and the JCBC represents this special relationship. I am confident that as longstanding friends, we can build on the strong foundations and continue to strengthen the special ties between our two countries as we write the next chapter of bilateral cooperation.


Xinhuanet: Singapore is an important Asean member and has served as the country coordinator for China-Asean relations since August 2015. Recently, Sino-Singapore relations have experienced some frictions at the government and people-to-people level. We can hear some "noise" from time to time. What is your view of these twists and turns? In which areas should China and Singapore work together to enhance mutual trust?

DPM: Singapore and China have a broad and longstanding relationship. We share similar views on most issues, and have worked well together to advance these common interests. But even among close neighbours and friends, there may be different perspectives on some issues, given that countries have different size, history, vulnerabilities, and geographical location. But the fundamental position of our two countries, that we share a common interest in the peaceful growth and development of our two countries and the region, remains the same.

Our common interest in building a peaceful and growing region is much greater than any occasional differences of views. Singapore will continue to be a strong supporter of China's peaceful development and constructive engagement in the region. As country coordinator, we are committed to strengthening the Asean-China partnership.

China has been Asean's largest trading partner since 2009, and Asean has been China's third largest trading partner since 2011. We upgraded the Asean-China FTA in 2015, developed several co-production projects in the last two years, and are working to improve tourism cooperation and synergy between the "Belt and Road" initiative and the Masterplan for Asean Connectivity in 2017.

It is not easy to reach a consensus on every issue among the 10 Asean member states and China. Nonetheless, what is most important is to maintain close communication so that we can expand on our common interests and reduce differences. We should also focus on enlarging our shared interests and advancing common objectives. Among true friends, there are no issues which cannot be discussed and no challenges which cannot be overcome.

As country coordinator, we will do our best to strengthen and deepen Asean-China cooperation, and I am confident of the bright prospects for even closer relations between Asean and China.


Xinhuanet: Singapore is an important developed Asean member. What role do you think Singapore will play in China's "21st Century Maritime Silk Road" initiative? In the process of advancing South-east Asian connectivity and Asean integration, in which areas could China and Singapore cooperate to achieve mutual benefit and win-win results? Singapore is currently discussing a high-speed rail cooperation project with Malaysia, will Singapore invite Chinese companies to participate?

DPM: Singapore is a strategic hub of the age-old "Maritime Silk Road" linking China, South-east Asia, West Asia and the Middle East. As a key hub for trade, infrastructure financing and one of the largest offshore RMB centres, Singapore is well-placed to support the growing number of Chinese companies venturing into markets along the "Belt and Road".

Singapore-based banks and infrastructural funds are key players in providing project loans and financial advisory for regional infrastructure projects. In particular, Chinese and Singapore banks are actively financing "Belt and Road" projects, particularly in South-east Asia.

The Monetary Authority of Singapore is also working with commercial banks and multilateral organisations to develop infrastructure as an investable asset class. Some of these multilateral organisations such as the World Bank, the International Finance Corporation and the Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency already have offices located in Singapore. This will help to harness more private capital to support regional infrastructure financing needs.

The "Belt and Road" will also complement initiatives such as the Asean Economic Community and the Master Plan on Asean Connectivity, and the various FTAs that regional countries are currently negotiating, including the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

There are many opportunities for Singapore and Chinese companies to work together on the "Belt and Road" projects in areas such as transport and logistics, mixed-use park developments, construction materials and financing. For example, Singapore's Ascendas and China Machinery Engineering Corporation signed an agreement in November 2015 to form a joint venture to develop industrial and business parks in third countries. Our officials are currently in negotiations to conclude an MOU on developing third-party market cooperation, and this will facilitate joint collaborations in 'Belt and Road" projects.

Singapore and Malaysia have agreed to conduct an international competitive tender for the high-speed rail (HSR) link between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Several leaders from Singapore have taken China's HSR. Singapore recognises the strengths in China's extensive HSR system, and welcomes Chinese companies to put in a good bid for the HSR tender. Singapore and Malaysia will give all bids serious consideration in a fair, open and transparent manner.

Related
DPM Teo Chee Hean's Written Interview with Xinhuanet, 26 February 2017: “New Initiatives to Deepen Singapore-China Friendship” - Chinese version
13th Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation (JCBC) Meetings in Beijing, The People's Republic of China
Visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean to Beijing, The People’s Republic of China
MFA Press Statement: Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan's Meetings in Beijing, the People's Republic of China, 27 February 2017

The immigration debate the US needs

March 1, 2017, 7:06 am

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By George Borjas, Published The Straits Times, 28 Feb 2017

The first month of the Trump administration has already changed the direction of the immigration debate. Changes in social policy do not make everyone better off, and immigration policy is no exception.

I am a refugee, having fled Cuba as a child in 1962. Not only do I have great sympathy for the immigrant's desire to build a better life, I am also proof that immigration policy can benefit some people enormously.

But I am also an economist, very much aware of the many trade-offs involved. There are winners and losers, and the improved lives of immigrants come at a price. How much of a price are the American people willing to pay, and exactly who will pay it?



Proponents of more immigration often claim that immigrants do jobs that native-born Americans don't want to do. But we know that the price of gas goes down when the supply of oil goes up. The laws of supply and demand do not evaporate when we talk about the price of labour. The well-documented abuses of the H-1B programme should have obliterated the notion that immigration does not harm competing native workers.

For the past 30 years, a large fraction of immigrants - nearly one-third - were high school dropouts, so that the incumbent low-skilled workforce, including many native-born African Americans and Hispanics, formed the core group of Americans who paid the price for the influx of millions of workers. Their wages fell by as much as 6 per cent.

That economic suffering generated economic gains; somebody's lower wage is somebody else's higher profit. The increase in the profitability of many employers enlarged the economic pie accruing to all natives by about US$50 billion (S$70.3 billion). So, as proponents of more immigration point out, immigration can increase our aggregate wealth. But they don't point out the trade-off involved: workers in jobs sought by immigrants lose out.

They also don't point out that low-skilled immigration has a side effect that reduces that US$50 billion increase. The National Academy of Sciences has estimated the impact of immigration on government budgets. On a year-to-year basis, immigrant families created an annual fiscal shortfall of US$43 billion to US$299 billion. Even the most conservative estimate of the shortfall wipes out much of the US$50 billion increase in native wealth. But the split of the pie changed, giving far less to workers and much more to employers.

We need to consider the freighted issue of immigrant assimilation. There has been a noticeable slowdown in the rate at which the economic status of immigrants improves over time. In the 1970s, immigrants could expect a substantial improvement relative to natives over their lifetimes. Today, the progress is much more stagnant. Part of that is related to the growth of ethnic enclaves. Immigrants who find few ethnic compatriots get value from acquiring skills that allow more social and economic exchanges, like learning English. But immigrants who find a large ethnic enclave have less need to acquire skills. Mass migration discourages assimilation.

The trade-offs become even more difficult when we think about the descendants of today's immigrants. Many assume that, like 20th-century America, the melting pot will work well and history will repeat itself. But the 20th-century melting pot operated in a particular economic, social and political context, and it is dead and gone. Now, in our country, employees at the University of California are advised to avoid saying "America is a melting pot" because it can lead to a micro-aggression - a suggestion that the recipient "assimilate to the dominant culture".

We will need to confront the trade-off between short-term economic gains and the long-term costs of a large, unassimilated minority. We need some general principles to design a sensible policy, combining common sense and compassion.

We must reduce illegal immigration. It has had a corrosive impact, paralysing discussion on reform. A border wall may be only partly effective because many unauthorised immigrants enter the country legally and overstay their visa. But a national electronic system mandating that employers certify new hires, with fines and criminal penalties for lawbreaking firms, might go a long way towards stemming the flow.

What about the more than 11 million unauthorised immigrants already here? Most have led peaceful lives, and sudden deportation is inconsistent with America's historic compassion towards immigrants. Perhaps it's time for some benign neglect. Many will eventually qualify for visas because they have married United States citizens or have native-born children. Rather than fight over a politically impossible amnesty, we could accelerate the granting of family-preference visas to that population.

We will also need to decide how many immigrants to admit. In the 1990s, congresswoman Barbara Jordan's immigration commission recommended an annual target of 550,000 immigrants. That would be a cut, but it may be preferable to the alternative, which could mean shutting off the flow altogether.

Finally, we need to choose between highly skilled and less skilled applicants. High-skilled immigrants are more profitable for us. But giving an opportunity to the huddled masses is part of what makes our country exceptional.

Regardless, employers should not walk away with all the gains and workers should not suffer all the losses. We need an equitable sharing of the gains and losses among the American people.

US President Donald Trump has already answered a fundamental question: "We are going to be considerate and compassionate to everyone," he said at the Republican National Convention. "We are going to have an immigration system that works, but one that works for the American people." Many in the academic and media elite recoil upon hearing that immigration should serve the interests of Americans. They immediately label such thinking as racist and xenophobic.

But that just avoids a discussion of the trade-offs. The debate would be more honest if we got a simple answer from those who disagree with "America First" proposals: Who are you rooting for?

NYTIMES


The writer is a professor of economics and social policy at the Harvard Kennedy School and the author of, most recently, We Wanted Workers: Unraveling The Immigration Narrative.

Cyber attack on MINDEF: Hackers steal data of 850 NSmen and staff

March 1, 2017, 11:10 pm

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By Irene Tham, Tech Editor, The Straits Times, 1 Mar 2017

The personal details of 850 national servicemen and staff at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) were stolen last month in what the ministry described as a "targeted and carefully planned" cyber attack possibly aimed at accessing official secrets.

MINDEF has ruled out casual hackers, criminal gangs and an inside job, leading experts to believe that the attack, the first in which MINDEF lost data, could be the work of foreign governments.

Early last month, MINDEF discovered that a vulnerability in its I-net system had been exploited, resulting in the loss of NRIC numbers, telephone numbers and birth dates of 850 personnel.

The I-net system provides Internet access on thousands of dedicated terminals to national servicemen and other employees working in MINDEF's offices and Singapore Armed Forces premises, such as army camps and naval bases.

At a briefing yesterday, MINDEF's deputy secretary of technology David Koh apologised for the breach.

He said that after the attack was detected, the affected server was disconnected from I-net and the security vulnerability was fixed. No classified information was stolen.

MINDEF, which is still seeking the culprit, added: "The real purpose may have been to gain access to official secrets, but this was prevented by the physical separation of I-net from our internal systems."

The delinking of classified systems from Internet computers prevents sensitive information from being accessed through the Web.

By May, all 100,000 public servants' computers will be delinked.

Explaining the delay in revealing the attack, MINDEF said it needed to investigate the incident before informing the public.

It added that it will contact all affected personnel within the week.

They will be asked to change their passwords and report any unusual activity related to the use of their personal information.

No breaches in other government networks have been detected, said the Cyber Security Agency.

Security experts say the attack may have been state-sponsored.

Mr Aloysius Cheang, executive vice-president of global computing security association Cloud Security Alliance, said: "It is common for states to sponsor such attacks to access other countries' infrastructure, and build a portfolio of information that can be used to their advantage."

Take steps to secure online accounts, experts urge
They advise against using birth date, NRIC or phone numbers as password
By Irene Tham, Tech Editor, The Straits Times, 1 Mar 2017

If you are using your NRIC and telephone numbers or birth date as a password to secure online accounts, change it immediately.

This is the advice of the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and security experts following a cyber attack discovered early last month, which resulted in the loss of the personal details of 850 MINDEF employees and national servicemen.

"Personal information is highly valuable to hackers since this can be used in further attacks or sold for monetary value," said Mr Nick Savvides, a security advocate for Asia-Pacific and Japan at cyber security software firm Symantec.

For instance, the stolen data could be used to access e-government services such as Central Provident Fund account balances, as one's NRIC number is the user name in many cases.

Hackers may also disguise themselves as the local authorities in e-mails embedded with malicious links or documents to trick users into downloading malware or divulging sensitive data, Mr Savvides said.

"Users need to be wary of follow- on attacks that may be crafted using the information gathered," he added.

MINDEF revealed yesterday that the unknown hackers exploited a vulnerability in its I-net system, resulting in the loss of the NRIC numbers, telephone numbers and birth dates of the 850 personnel.

The I-net system provides Internet access on thousands of dedicated terminals to national servicemen and other employees working in MINDEF's offices and Singapore Armed Forces premises.

Mr Alex Lei, regional director for South-east Asia at security systems specialist FireEye, said that targeted attacks are the "new reality" for governments around the world.

"Targeted attacks often reflect geopolitical tensions, and South-east Asia is no stranger to these tensions," said Mr Lei.

Mr Sanjay Aurora, Asia-Pacific managing director of cyber security firm Darktrace, said the incident highlights the importance of using advanced systems.

"It is a cyber arms race, and artificial intelligence technology that automatically identifies and takes action against genuine threats will be instrumental in safeguarding critical information and infrastructure," he said.

Mr Dan Yock Hau, director of the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore's National Cyber Incident Response Centre, concurred.

"We have to take steps to build greater security into software design and strengthen our systems to ensure resilience to cyber attacks," he said.

He also noted that trained cyber security professionals will play an important role to keep Singapore systems safe.

Public relations consultant Khairul Sufiyan uses his NRIC number and birth date as a password for some online accounts. "I better change them quickly," said the 30-year-old, who was worried he could be one of the 850 affected.

PAST DATA BREACHES IN SINGAPORE

September 2014

The personal data of 317,000 customers of karaoke bar chain K Box was exposed on the Internet owing to lax security measures. Access to K Box's computers was protected by weak passwords made up of only one letter of the alphabet. K Box was fined $50,000 by Singapore's privacy watchdog as a result of the breach, which exposed customers' names, addresses, and mobile phone and identity card numbers.


June 2014

The Government discovered that 1,560 SingPass accounts were stolen. Three tampered accounts were fraudulently used to make applications for work passes. The use of easy-to-crack passwords was believed to be the culprit. SingPass is an authentication system that secures Singapore residents' access to 340 e-government services, including those for filing income tax returns and checking Central Provident Fund account balances.


January 2017

The Personal Data Protection Commission fined PropNex Realty $10,000 after the latter inadvertently caused the personal data of 1,765 people to be leaked online. A system flaw caused a PDF document listing one item or all of the personal information - name, mobile number, residential address and e-mail address - of the 1,765 individuals to be freely available online for months.


March 2015

The personal data of more than 1,900 pupils from Henry Park Primary School was leaked when an Excel spreadsheet containing the children's particulars was mistakenly sent out to about 1,200 parents as part of an update about a school event. The file contained the names and birth certificate numbers of all 1,900 pupils in the school, and the names, telephone numbers and e-mail addresses of their parents.

Related
Breach in MINDEF's I-net System
No Internet for Singapore public servants from May 2017

BBC HARDTalk: PM Lee Hsien Loong speaks to Stephen Sackur

March 2, 2017, 12:29 am

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PM Lee: Singapore's position will become tougher if US-China tensions rise
He fields range of questions in interview with BBC's HARDtalk
By Charissa Yong, Political Correspondent, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

As a friend to both America and China, Singapore can be put in a difficult situation if there is friction between the two giants, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said in an interview with British broadcaster BBC.

He made the point when presenter Stephen Sackur asked about rising tensions in the region and perceived Chinese unhappiness over Singapore's ties with America.

Mr Lee said: "If America-China relations become very difficult, our position becomes tougher. Because then we will be coerced to choose between being friends with America, and friends with China.

"That is the real worry."

He was on the BBC's HARDtalk interview programme aired yesterday, during which he was also asked about the international climate and freedom of expression as well as the law criminalising gay sex.

On US-China ties, he added: "Right now, we are friends with both. Not that we do not have issues with either, but we are generally friends with both, and the relationships are in good working order."

Mr Sackur, however, noted that with the US, there are problems, including President Donald Trump's antipathy towards global trade.

He asked Mr Lee if the US' move to withdraw from the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade pact had caused Singapore to review whether the US "has its back".

Mr Lee replied that everyone in the region, Singapore included, was watching the US very carefully.

"We have a very deep relationship with the United States. They are our biggest investor. They are one of our major export markets," he said.

Both countries cooperate in defence, security and counter-terrorism, and Americans are very welcome here and Singaporeans feel very comfortable in America.

But Singapore would have to watch America's direction and political tone, as well as what its government does, Mr Lee added.

Turning to Singapore-China ties, Mr Sackur brought up Hong Kong's seizure of nine Singapore Armed Forces Terrex infantry carriers on their way back from a military exercise in Taiwan last December.

Said Mr Lee: "I would not say we have major problems. We have had some issues and some incidents. The military vehicles were an incident which happened to both of us and we had to handle it."

Asked if it suggested a lack of trust between them, Mr Lee said: "It was a delicate matter for both sides and I think both sides handled it carefully and there has been a satisfactory outcome."

Mr Lee also clarified Singapore's position on an international arbitral tribunal ruling last July that China's claims in the South China Sea are illegal. He said the court had made a strong statement, but stressed that Singapore does not judge specific claims, and respects the interest of the court.

Mr Sackur suggested Singapore's stance on the case could be viewed by Beijing as a betrayal of friendship. Further, it had in October 2015 let America deploy Poseidon surveillance planes on its territory.

Mr Lee said Singapore has had this relationship with the US for a long time. It buys military equipment from the superpower and its air force trains on US soil.

Singapore has also hosted US aircraft and ships which pass through and stop here.

Singapore does all this because it believes America's presence in the region has brought about stability and enabled countries to prosper, Mr Lee said. But Beijing-Washington ties require close and sustained attention on both sides, he noted.

While China is paying attention to the relationship, he said, the US has many other issues to worry about.

"It is not just a matter of making strong statements. You have to... communicate convincingly and to a certain degree, openly with the other side, and develop that strategic understanding so that there is no miscalculation," he added.

Mr Lee, asked about a free trade deal with the United Kingdom, said Singapore would be happy to negotiate one when Britain is ready.

He also said Singapore would sign a new TPP trade pact minus the US if there was consensus from the other countries. "I would not rule it out but I think it is not so easy to achieve," he added.

PM LEE ON PRESS FREEDOM

I would not presume to tell you how your press council should operate. Why should you presume to tell me how my country should run?

We are completely open.


 


ON CRITICISMS ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS

If Singapore were such a miserable place, you would not be interviewing me. You would be going down the streets and getting "vox pops" (interviews with members of the public), and all sorts of people would be saying terrible things about the Government and some of them would have emigrated.

But the fact is, Singaporeans are happy, they have chosen this Government, we are governing the country and the people to the best of our ability. Millions more would like to come if we allowed it.



ON LINKING HUMAN RIGHTS TO TRADE

The world is a diverse place. Nobody has a monopoly of virtue or wisdom. Unless we can accept that, and we prosper together and cooperate together, accepting our differences - differences in values, differences in outlook, differences even in what we see the goals of life to be - it becomes difficult.



ON HAVING ONE-PARTY RULE

I would not say it is one-party rule. The Government has only belonged to one party but there are many parties in Singapore. The elections are fiercely contested.






ON SECTION 377A OF THE PENAL CODE WHICH CRIMINALISES GAY SEX

We are not British. We are not Victorian. But this is a society which is not that liberal on these matters. Attitudes have changed, but I believe if you have a referendum on the issue today, 377A would stand.

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2017 Budget Statement debate in Parliament

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Government studying all options to meet future revenue needs: Heng Swee Keat
Heng Swee Keat urges workers, businesses to embrace a spirit of enterprise and partnership
By Yasmine Yahya, Assistant Business Editor, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

The maturing Singapore economy is entering a phase where its revenues will grow slowly while an ageing population and the demands of infrastructure will heighten the need to spend.

The Government has already started tightening its belt, with budget caps for ministries over the medium term, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said as he wrapped up three days of parliamentary debate on Budget 2017. This year, the caps are being adjusted downward by 2 per cent.



As he reiterated the call for Singapore to embrace a spirit of enterprise and partnership in its journey of transformation, Mr Heng also stressed the need for its finances to remain sustainable in the long run.

"Besides spending prudently and effectively, we will have to grow our revenues through new taxes, or raising taxes over time," he said.

He assured members that Singapore's tax system will continue to be fair and sustainable.

It must be progressive across income groups, he said. "What this means is that those who are better off must contribute more."

He stressed that the system must reward efforts by individuals and enterprise by companies to remain sustainable. "We will study all options carefully," said Mr Heng.

Elaborating on Budget 2017, he said it builds on the strategies put forth by the Committee on the Future Economy, which calls for Singaporeans to work together "for economic development, and in all areas", said Mr Heng.

That need for partnership is perhaps most apparent in the Industry Transformation Maps (ITMs), which chart out how companies can work together with agencies, unions, trade associations and others to restructure and transform themselves.

The Government cannot, on its own, design plans for thousands of companies across different industries, but it can catalyse and bring stakeholders together, which is what it seeks to do with ITMs, he added. "The quality of the ITMs will depend on the quality of inputs from industries and partners, and how well we work together for the larger good."

Workers, meanwhile, can do their part by going beyond the familiar, Mr Heng said. Businesses must have the courage to adopt and try new ideas.

On its part, the Government will support the needs of Singapore's people and businesses so that they can achieve their full potential, by creating a regulatory environment that both supports innovation and manages risks.

The spirit of partnership is just as important in securing a better living environment for Singapore, he added.

While the Government has steadily increased its spending on social needs such as healthcare, education and housing over the past decade, from $12.7 billion in 2006 to $34 billion in 2016, people have their part to play too.

"Even the strongest social safety nets are no substitute for the caring hearts and helpful hands of neighbours," Mr Heng said.

Budget 2017, he noted, focuses on efforts to empower the community and forge partnerships.

"This is a movement towards the future, where we nurture a culture of caring for one another, of many helping hands, to meet a significant increase in societal needs."

This is important, he said, as Singapore's ageing population and smaller families will likely lead to higher healthcare spending.

Mr Heng noted that several MPs had raised concerns about how the hike in water prices, the introduction of a carbon tax and the restructuring of diesel taxes will lead to higher costs for households and businesses. "We are taking decisive steps in this area because we want a cleaner and healthier environment for ourselves and our children," he said.

Government will ensure taxes remain fair, sustainable
Heng: Spending needs will keep growing but decision to raise taxes won't be taken lightly
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Singapore's spending needs will keep growing in the years ahead, even as it becomes tougher to raise revenue in a maturing economy, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said yesterday.

The population is ageing, and infrastructure needs are rising too.

This means that besides spending prudently and effectively, the Government will have to grow revenue through new taxes or raising tax rates over time, he told Parliament in his speech rounding up the three-day Budget debate.

He said that any decision to raise taxes "will not be taken lightly". "We will study all options carefully," he added.

Mr Saktiandi Supaat (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC) and Mr Yee Chia Hsing (Chua Chu Kang GRC) had asked how the Government intends to review its tax system.

Mr Heng assured members: "We will ensure that our tax system continues to be fair and sustainable."

He outlined three principles.

One, the tax system must be fair and progressive, with the better-off contributing more.

Two, a sustainable tax system is also one that rewards effort by individuals and enterprise by companies. He noted that Britain has lowered the corporate tax rate from 30 per cent to 20 per cent over the past 10 years, and plans to further lower it to 17 per cent by 2020. The new United States administration has indicated plans to cut corporate tax rates too.

"We must ensure that Singapore continues to be an attractive place to work and do business, so we have a thriving and vibrant economy."

Three, sustainability entails striking the right balance between current and future generations.

Addressing a suggestion by Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC) to use proceeds from land sales, he said such proceeds go to past reserves.

"It is because of this prudence that we are able to build up our reserves, and we can use part of these returns for our expenditure.

"We must remain disciplined and prudent in spending the returns of our reserves, so that they remain a stable and sustainable source of revenue over the long term," he said.

Singapore must ensure it has the capacity to invest in critical programmes and infrastructure for the long term, in a way that is equitable to current and future generations.

Mr Heng said the challenge of raising revenues for growing needs is not unique to Singapore.

He cited, for example, how Hong Kong announced in its recent budget that it would be setting up a tax policy unit to review its tax system.

He noted that Singapore's Budget spending has been higher than operating revenues since FY2015.

The Government anticipated this and raised revenues ahead of spending needs - by increasing the goods and services tax in 2007 and introducing the net investment returns framework, which allows it to spend up to half the long-term expected real returns of GIC, the Monetary Authority of Singapore and Temasek Holdings, in 2008. Other moves included raising duties for betting, liquor and tobacco, and raising top marginal rates for personal income tax.

"But beyond this decade, we can expect the fiscal situation to become more challenging as our expenditures exceed revenues in the longer term," Mr Heng said.

"With higher spending needs, it is ever more critical for us to ensure that we spend within our means to get the outcomes we want."

Funding policies for ministries have been designed to get agencies to operate efficiently and effectively, and this was further reinforced by a 2 per cent downward adjustment to ministries' budget caps.

He said scrutiny of major infrastructure projects is also being tightened, and subsidies are targeted at the right groups - those in need.

Budget aims to balance short-term relief with help for challenges ahead
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Budget 2017 seeks to strike a balance between short-term concerns and gearing up Singapore for the future, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said yesterday.

Responding to MPs who said during a two-day debate that companies hit by the slowing economy are not receiving enough help, Mr Heng said the Budget focus is on targeted help for the worst-hit sectors while encouraging companies to build deep capabilities for the long term.

"A painkiller may work for a while to dull the pain, but it masks the underlying problem and delays needed action," he told Parliament.

In his speech rounding up the 2017 Budget debate, Mr Heng said companies and workers are facing an increasingly volatile and complex world where economic growth is slowing and new, disruptive technologies have become par for the course.

He also acknowledged that companies in some segments of the economy have been hit hard by the slowdown, even as they face mounting operating costs.

But, he said, "unlike the 2009 global financial crisis or the 1985 recession, we are not in a crisis".

While some sectors are facing a cyclical downturn, others are doing well and cannot find enough workers to fill vacancies, he noted.

The worst-hit industries have received targeted help, he said, pointing out that the near-term support measures for businesses in Budget 2017 added up to $1.4 billion.

These include enhancements to corporate income tax rebates as well as extensions to existing measures like the Wage Credit Scheme.

Noting that $1.4 billion "is not a trivial amount", Mr Heng added: "These are on top of the substantial stimulus measures introduced in the last three to four years, of which their cumulative effects are still working through the economy."

While businesses are facing cost pressures, "we must also recognise that, in a functioning economy, cost pressures serve as price signals, so that resources can be channelled into the most productive use."

He added: "We must be careful not to hamper this process. An across-the-board stimulus would not be effective as it may further push up cost pressures. So we monitor the situation closely and calibrate the fiscal stance accordingly."

Beyond short-term relief, the Budget also builds on ongoing efforts to prepare companies for the challenges ahead, the minister said.

"We want to help our businesses build deep capabilities that will enable them to adapt to a fast-changing world, and seize new opportunities where they arise.

"This is the key to continued success," Mr Heng said.

Social safety nets 'no substitute for caring hearts, helpful hands'
By Rachel Au-Yong, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

For years, retiree Lee Ah Keow shut herself up in her Jurong West flat, preferring not to venture out to meet friends or take a walk.

The 70-year-old had weak knees and having fallen before, was afraid of getting injured if she fell again.

But Pioneer Generation ambassadors who visited her last August saw that she was at risk of social isolation, and flagged her case.

An entire network of community-based groups was activated to help - case managers from NTUC Health's Cluster Support checked in on her, the Housing Board installed subsidised grab bars in her home, and befrienders from the Reach Community Services Society began visiting her and taking her to the nearby fitness corner.

Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat recounted Madam Lee's case in Parliament yesterday to emphasise the importance of community involvement.

He said: "There are functions that the Government is best placed to perform - such as legislation and the provision of public goods and services. And there are areas where we can achieve more, much more when we all work together."

Community action is particularly critical when it comes to "providing last-mile social service delivery" and customising assistance for vulnerable groups, he said.

"Even the strongest social safety nets are no substitute for the caring hearts and helpful hands of neighbours," he added. "We want a close partnership among individuals, communities and Government, because this is an end in itself... a society where Singaporeans help fellow citizens in each way we can."

The Government will play its part, by doing more to foster stronger partnerships between groups.

Mr Heng noted that the Community Network for Seniors, a pilot project in three neighbourhoods which he announced in last year's Budget, has helped 380 seniors with multiple needs, engaged 5,000 seniors in active ageing and recruited more than 180 volunteers.

"It is a small start, but at the same time it is rewarding to see how community and Government work together to touch lives," he said, adding that the Government will review suggestions on how to better help the elderly.

Mr Heng also said he was heartened by a growing spirit of enterprise in the social sector, and encouraged groups to keep on building capabilities to serve their communities.

This year's Budget provides additional funding, through the VWOs-Charities Capability Fund, to support their efforts, he added.

Water fees 'cover only PUB ops and asset depreciation': Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat
Agency's annual surpluses channelled to reserves to finance plants and equipment
By Chong Zi Liang, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

The money that people pay for using water is enough to cover only the operations of national water agency PUB and the depreciation of its water works, pipelines and water reclamation plants, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat said yesterday.

The annual surpluses PUB gets are transferred to its reserves to finance its plants and equipment, he told the House, addressing the issue of the water price hike that surfaced throughout the Budget debate.

"The Government pays for part of the total cost of securing a safe and clean supply of water for our people and businesses," he added, as he underlined the strategic value of water and updated members on plans for investments in the water system.

PUB intends to invest $4 billion on additional water infrastructure in the next five years.

The sewerage network will be improved as well. A deep tunnel sewerage system, costing more than $4 billion, will be completed in 2025.

Another $3 billion will be spent on other sewerage network projects, and to strengthen the resilience of the water supply, in the next five years. These expenses exceed the revenue from the water conservation tax, which is expected to be about $1.6 billion in the five-year period, he added.

Over the past three days, MPs had voiced residents' concerns that business and living costs were expected to go up with the 30 per cent hike in water price, which will take effect in two phases, starting in July this year.

Others, however, stressed that water is a precious resource as Singapore's existence hinges on it, and that the price of water should reflect its value.

"Water sufficiency is a matter of national survival," Mr Heng said, as he noted how founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew "obsessed over water since the Separation Agreement".

"Securing a sustainable water supply for Singapore has been an all-consuming pursuit of the Government since Independence. We lodged our water agreements with the United Nations, invested in a strong defence force and developed strong capabilities in water technologies," he added.

"Singaporeans have enjoyed uninterrupted and high-quality drinking water through rainy weather and droughts alike. This is not mere good fortune or our birthright. Rather, it is the result of long-term planning, a can-do attitude, innovation and sound policy," he said.

Mr Heng reiterated a point Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli made on Tuesday, that the cornerstone of Singapore's policy on water is pricing it on sound economic principles to reflect its "long-run marginal cost" - that is, the cost of supplying the next available drop of water, which is likely to come from Newater and desalination plants.

"This ensures that users will conserve water, and we can make timely investments in the water system," he said.

Yesterday, Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC) of the Workers' Party asked why a proposed carbon tax will be implemented only in 2019, but Singaporeans were not given a similar two-year notice for the increase in water price.

Mr Heng said the carbon tax is new and it will take time to study carefully the details before rolling it out. "A more fundamental point is whether Ms Lim agrees that water is of strategic significance and that we should each do our part," he added.

See water price hike in perspective, says PM Lee
The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong joined the discussion on the water price hike with a Facebook post yesterday, saying he hoped the debate in Parliament on the issue will remind Singaporeans of the value of water:

"The water price increase has triggered sharp reactions from Singaporeans. Two ministers - Chan Chun Sing and Masagos Zulkifli - spoke about this in Parliament yesterday(Wednesday). They explained why water is an existential issue for Singapore, and why this price increase is unavoidable.

Singapore is an island, yet we are one of the most water-stressed countries in the world. We have enough water today only because of our unremitting efforts since independence. For us, water will always be a strategic resource, and a matter of national security. The Pioneer Generation knew this. So do the generations of servicemen and women who have defended Singapore.



In this situation, we have to price water properly. Then every time we turn on the tap, we are conscious of how precious each drop is. We last revised water prices in 1997 - a long time ago. Since then, we have developed Newater. We have also invested in desalination, which is cheaper than before but still expensive. We need to build more Newater and desalination plants. That is why the cost of producing water has gone up, and tariffs must rise.

We should see the 30 per cent increase in perspective. Many households will get additional U-Save rebates. So one- and two-room HDB households will not see any nett increase at all. For most other HDB flats, the nett increase will only be between $2 and $11 per month. For three-quarters of businesses, water bills will go up by less than a $1 per day ($25 per month). Minister Masagos shared these in his speech.

I hope this public debate reminds us how important and valuable water is, and how we can all help to conserve water, so that we always have enough water in Singapore."

Budget debate: 5 key questions on water
The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Over the past two days, ministers Masagos Zulkifli, Chan Chun Sing and Heng Swee Keat answered key questions MPs had on the water price hike. Here is a summary of their responses.

1. WHY MUST THE PRICE OF WATER RISE?

The price of water has to reflect what is called the long-run marginal cost (LRMC) - that is, the cost of supplying the next available drop of water.

This is likely to come from Newater and desalination plants.

As there is a limit to recycling used water in Newater plants, three desalination plants are being built within the next three years.

As more used water is reclaimed for Newater, the liquid waste is more difficult and costly to treat.

Building pipes to deliver water has also become pricier, as Singapore becomes more built up.

Pricing water right will ensure users conserve it, and enable investments in water infrastructure.


2. WHY HIKE THE PRICE NOW?

The price of water has not gone up in 17 years, since 2000. There is never a good time to raise prices, noted Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat.

But the costs of producing water are rising. PUB plans to invest $4 billion in additional water infrastructure over the next five years.

The Government is also making investments in the sewerage network. This includes the Deep Tunnel Sewerage System, which will be ready in 2025 and will cost more than $4 billion. Another $3 billion will also be spent on other sewerage network projects, and to strengthen the resilience of the island's water supply.

Also, water levels in Johor's Linggiu Reservoir, from which Singapore draws its water, have been falling in recent years, and climate change could worsen matters.


3. HOW DID 30 PER CENT FIGURE COME ABOUT?

The Government still needs to build more desalination plants and Newater plants. So details on the costs involved in aspects of water production are commercially sensitive, and revealing specifics could prejudice future bids. But Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli told MPs that even with the 30 per cent hike, the price of water would be below cost.


4. HASN'T TECHNOLOGY HELPED?

Technologically, Singapore has squeezed everything it can from the current water processing technology. It will take several more years to achieve the next breakthrough and bring it to a deployable scale.


5. WOULDN'T THERE BE A KNOCK-ON EFFECT ON OTHER COSTS?

The price hike translates into 75 per cent of businesses seeing an increase of less than $25 per month in water bills - or less than $1 a day.

Some businesses have said they will not increase prices.

Extra U-Save rebates for households means those in one- and two-room HDB flats will not see any increase on average.

For other HDB flat types, monthly water bills will go up by between $2 and $11 per month.

Overall, spending on water will remain at about 1 per cent of household income for most families.

Heng Swee Keat: Ensuring fiscal sustainability for the future
The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

In his round-up speech at the end of the Budget debate yesterday, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat set out the challenge Singapore faces in ensuring its finances are sustainable for the long term. Here is an extract of his speech.

Just as we seek to protect our home and environment for our future generations, we must ensure that our finances are sustainable for the long term.

As Ms Sun Xueling pointed out, our expenditures have started to exceed our operating revenues since FY2015.

The Government had in fact anticipated this and prepared early, by raising revenues ahead of our spending needs. Indeed, this is the approach this Government has always taken.

We had therefore raised the goods and services tax in 2007 and introduced the Net Investment Returns (NIR) framework in 2008.

In the last term of Government, we had also undertaken measures such as making our property tax rates more progressive and increasing the duties for betting, liquor and tobacco over time.

In Budget 2015, we announced increases in top marginal rates for personal income tax and revisions to the NIR framework. These measures now serve us well to meet our spending needs through to the end of this decade.

But beyond this decade, we can expect the fiscal situation to become more challenging as expenditures exceed revenues in the longer term.

• First, our economy is maturing. With slowing economic growth, our revenues will also grow more slowly.

• Second, our population is ageing rapidly and we can expect rising expenditure needs, especially for healthcare.

• Third, our infrastructure needs are rising, as we seek to build new infrastructure and renew old ones to enhance our quality of life and Singapore's economic competitiveness.



Going forward, we must continue to prepare for our greater needs in the long term by working on two fronts:

• Spending prudently and effectively; and

• Growing our revenues fairly and sustainably.

SPENDING PRUDENTLY AND EFFECTIVELY

With higher spending needs, it is ever more critical to ensure that we spend within our means to get the outcomes we want, as Mr Vikram Nair noted.

At the ministry level, we have designed our funding policies to drive agencies to operate efficiently and effectively. Today, we budget for ongoing functions using a Block Budget framework, where ministries are provided with budget caps for a medium-term period. Within the cap, each ministry decides how best to allocate its budget. This approach encourages ministries to strive for cost-effectiveness, because every dollar optimised means more resources available for worthwhile programmes.

This year, we sought to further reinforce the importance of spending prudently and effectively, by applying a permanent 2 per cent downward adjustment to the budget caps of all ministries and organs of state.

• This will free up resources that the Ministry of Finance can redeploy towards higher-priority requirements and projects that deliver value to citizens and businesses, such as initiatives by the Municipal Services Office.

• Within their adjusted budget caps, agencies will decide how to prioritise their programmes and projects and review how they can achieve greater efficiency.

• Fundamentally, we want to imbue these values of prudence and innovation in all officers in the public service: to always seek value for money, and constantly strive to improve and innovate, so that we can do more - and do better - with less.

At the project level, we are tightening scrutiny of major infrastructure projects to ensure robustness of their business case and value for money.

• We have a process today that puts large infrastructure projects (more than $500 million), or those that are highly complex in nature, through a series of reviews before funding is approved.

• This process taps a panel of senior public officers and industry practitioners, those with deep technical expertise and experience in major infrastructure development, with the aim of optimising the project's overall design, use of space and cost-effectiveness.

At the programme level, we are designing our schemes so that subsidies are targeted at the right groups. As a general principle, we price services to recover full cost and discourage over-consumption. We then target subsidies appropriately at those in need, such as through GST vouchers, service and conservancy charge rebates and public transport vouchers. This is more progressive than underpricing services, which implicitly subsidises all groups, including the rich.

GROWING REVENUES FAIRLY AND SUSTAINABLY

Ms Sylvia Lim asked whether we evaluate programmes and I think on the economic programmes, Minister Iswaran gave a detailed explanation of how agencies evaluate those programmes and have to adapt and change when necessary. Then, she raised the issue of the Productivity and Innovation Credit (PIC). The PIC in fact has largely achieved its objective but she raised examples of abuses to make her case. This is mistaken. In fact, those abuses were uncovered because of extensive audits that were done by the agencies, and we should commend the officers for the seriousness in which they undertake this. And in many other countries, those abuses would not even be known. The schemes were done in a way that is broad-based and reaches the right groups of people. The alternative, of course, is to have every detail scrutinised and approved before the businesses can use it. And in fact, in many of the Budget dialogues we had with businesses, their concern was that if you have too many schemes that are just based on approval, things will not move. So it is a delicate balance, and a good balance which the agencies should be commended for.

Besides spending prudently and effectively, we will have to grow our revenues through new taxes or raising tax rates over time. This challenge of raising revenues for growing needs is not unique to Singapore. If you look at many other countries, the need for more revenue to meet spending needs is a common theme that cuts across different systems. For example, Hong Kong announced at its recent budget that it would be setting up a tax policy unit to comprehensively review its tax system. One of its objectives would be, and I quote, to "explore broadening the tax base and increasing revenue, so as to ensure that adequate resources are available" to support sustainable development.

Mr Saktiandi Supaat and Mr Yee Chia Hsing had asked how we intend to review our own tax system. I would like to assure them that we will ensure that our tax system continues to be both fair and sustainable.

First, our tax system must be fair and progressive across income groups. What this means is that those who are better off must contribute more. In recent Budgets, we have continued to make our personal income tax and property tax rates more progressive, even as we introduced or enhanced permanent schemes such as Silver Support and Workfare to provide more support to lower-income groups.

Second, a sustainable tax system is fundamentally one that rewards effort by individuals and enterprise by our companies.

As Ms Foo Mee Har pointed out, the only way to sustain a healthy revenue stream is to have a healthy and growing economy.

In more recent years, more countries have lowered or announced their intention to lower corporate income tax rates. The United Kingdom has lowered its corporate tax rate from 30 per cent to 20 per cent over the last 10 years, and plans to further lower it to 17 per cent by 2020. The new administration in the United States has also indicated plans to cut corporate tax rates. We must ensure that Singapore continues to be an attractive place to work and do business, so that we have a thriving and vibrant economy.

Third, sustainability is also about striking the right balance between current and future generations. We have spent prudently, built up our reserves, and tapped on their returns judiciously. Ms Lim suggested using the proceeds from land sales. Now, the proceeds from land sales go into past reserves, and it is because of this prudence that we are able to build up our reserves, and we can use part of these returns for our expenditure. So we must remain disciplined and prudent in spending the returns of our reserves, so that they remain a stable and sustainable source of revenue over the long term.

We must remain disciplined and prudent in spending our reserves, so that they remain a stable and sustainable source of revenue over the long term. Any decision to raise taxes will not be taken lightly. We will study all options carefully.

While our finances today are sound, we must start planning early. This is the right and responsible way, rather than leaving problems to be dealt with by future governments when Singapore comes under fiscal strain. Planning for the issue now will allow us to better ease in the needed measures, to give our people and businesses some time to adjust.

We must plan for the long term, not five years, not 10 years, but big ambitious plans for decades ahead - like the new airport; new towns, each with distinctive features to attract families; new MRT lines.

We are in a good position today, because we have planned early and invested in the long term. This ability to plan and invest for the long term is a key strategic advantage. We must ensure that we continue to have this capacity to invest in critical programmes and infrastructure with long-term benefits, in a way that is equitable to both current and future generations.

This Budget sets the strategies for building a better Singapore in a sustainable way. We can move forward confidently on these strategies, as we are starting from a position of strength. This is a cumulative effort from previous Budgets:

• We have a well-functioning economy where most Singaporeans have good jobs;

• We have a good social security system that serves the majority of Singaporeans well;

• We have spent prudently so we have the necessary resources.

In this fast-changing world, we cannot predict how the journey ahead will pan out, but we can expect that it will not be always smooth-sailing. There is no step-by-step guide for how to venture into the volatile, unpredictable future that lies ahead for the whole world, not only Singapore.

But for Singapore, we have our compass, a compass of our shared values and our common hope.

In this Budget, we set our minds:

• To seize opportunities to succeed;

• To be part of, to play a part in, a caring and inclusive community; and

• To build, protect and pass on a truly special home to future generations.

Let us develop the deep capabilities, strengthen the spirit of enterprise to adapt and try out new things, work together in partnership, and care for and support one another.

I am confident we can do it. We have been through tougher situations. Each time, despite the naysayers, we emerged stronger and more adaptive, as we held strong together as one people.

An inclusive vision to galvanise the future economy
By Fiona Chan, Managing Editor, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

It was never going to be easy to chart a future direction for Singapore's high-income, high-cost, high-comfort yet still highly vulnerable economy.

Wrapping up the Budget debate yesterday in front of a nearly full House, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat recapped the strategies presented in last week's Budget to address head-on, the "waves of change sweeping across the world".

At the risk of oversimplification, they can broadly be grouped into four Ps: partnership, proficiency, pliability and prudence.

As the country feels its way forward into an unpredictable future, partnerships between the Government and the larger community will be crucial in dealing with disruptive trends not only at work but also at home, Mr Heng said in Parliament.

Both in designing transformative business plans and in delivering last-mile social services to an ageing population, the Government will have to work closely with industry, trade associations, unions, workers and individuals, he added.

For Singaporean companies and workers to stand out in a competitive and digital world, they need deep proficiency in their chosen fields. This means continual upgrading and going beyond the familiar to try new things.

It also entails pliability: an ability to adapt quickly to shifts in the economy, he added.

"With rapid changes in technology and business models, job roles will be redefined more often, and new skills will frequently be required."

And after two days of impassioned exchanges over water prices, it was fitting that the principle of prudence continued to underscore discussions about Singapore's finances in the future economy.

As spending needs rise, taxes will have to be raised or introduced. But Mr Heng gave the assurance that these will remain progressive and adequately reward labour, and that the Government will also ensure its spending is cost-efficient.

This thrifty stand maintains Singapore's legendary caution in accumulating wealth and spending within its means, which has served it well over the years.

In fact, all the strategies that Mr Heng outlined yesterday from Budget 2017, building on the recommendations in the report by the Committee on the Future Economy that preceded it, are eminently sound and sensible.

So much so that at times they seemed - to borrow more P words - too placid and predictable for what was hoped to be an ambitious road map into an unsettling but exciting digital-driven future.

While Mr Heng did a comprehensive job of outlining how Singapore should move forward, he spent less time explaining why.

Is it simply because our jobs depend on it? If Singaporeans decided that they would be satisfied with low growth and a slower pace of life, would we still need to try so hard to transform?

Or is there another P that should be part of plans for the future economy: a unifying purpose beyond dollars and cents that could better galvanise Singaporeans to move forward together in embracing technological disruption?

Minister-in-Charge of the Smart Nation Initiative Vivian Balakrishnan gave a glimpse into what one such shared vision might look like, during the Committee of Supply debate that also started yesterday.

Elaborating on how the Government has used technology to improve public services, such as in mobile payments and transport, he said the digital economy "is not about technology but really about maximising future job options and ensuring a better quality of life and an inclusive society".

Assistive technologies, for instance, empower marginalised members of society more than ever before. About 3,000 people have benefited from Tech Able, a resource centre to help people with disabilities access technology and devices that make their lives better.

"Our vision is that a visitor to Singapore should come, look, experience and say, 'I have seen the future and it works'," he said.

Challenging though it might be, embracing a future economy that also enables Singapore to be an even more inclusive society would be a worthy pursuit indeed .

Water a critical asset that must be priced right, say ministers
Masagos lays out reasons for price hike, points to rising costs of producing water
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

Water is a matter of national security and has to be priced correctly to reflect its strategic importance and scarcity value, two ministers said yesterday.

Speaking on the second day of debate on the Government's Budget for the new financial year, Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli laid out the reasons behind the hotly debated move to increase water prices by 30 per cent over two years.

The last time that the Government announced a hike in water prices was in 1997, he said, when elements in Malaysia were threatening to block Singapore's supply of water from Johor.

Despite major investments in desalination and Newater since then, Singapore remains a water-stressed nation. And the rising costs of producing water, the need to build and expand desalination, Newater and water reclamation plants, and climate change, make it urgent to have the right price in place to moderate demand, said Mr Masagos.

"The consumer must feel the price of water, realise how valuable water is in Singapore, every time he or she turns on the tap, right from the first drop," he said.



Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Chan Chun Sing said he felt compelled to speak on the topic after hearing the strong reactions to the impending hike, announced during the Budget last week.

"I can understand the angst of our people with the water price increase," he said. But water, he said, is an existential issue, crucial to the country's survival.

"It has been so in 1965. It has been so yesterday. It is so today, and it will be so tomorrow," said Mr Chan.

While Singapore has made great strides in improving its water situation - with 17 reservoirs today, and two-thirds of its land used for water catchment - the country is "nowhere near where we want to be".

Singapore cannot increase its water catchment area by much more, and must depend on technology such as desalination and Newater.

It is also committed to working with the Malaysian government and the Johor authorities to see how the water system can be developed for the benefit of both countries.

Mr Masagos noted that water levels in Johor's Linggiu Reservoir, from which Singapore also draws its water, have been falling in recent years. "What is clear is that Linggiu is operating today at a level way below what we are comfortable with, and it will take years to build up again to a reliable capacity," he said.

Singapore must also contend with rising costs, said Mr Masagos. It must build more desalination plants to increase its supply. As more used water is reclaimed for Newater, the liquid waste is more difficult and costly to treat. Building pipes to deliver water has also become pricier, as Singapore becomes more built up.

It is therefore urgent that water is priced right to moderate demand from businesses and households, while also building infrastructure to ensure Singapore has a secure water supply, he said.

"We hope that through right pricing, everyone will cultivate the habit of water saving as part of Singapore's DNA, whether we are a household or business," he said.

Apart from both ministers, 32 MPs debated the Budget yesterday, tackling issues such as initiatives to help workers and small firms.

The water price hike remained a hot topic, with MPs seeking more details. Ms Joan Pereira (Tanjong Pagar GRC) said residents and businesses were taken aback by the announcement, which was made with "no prior public consultations".

"While price increases are never welcomed, periodic increments with justifications shared in advance would be preferable to a sudden jump," she said.

Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat will respond to MPs when Parliament resumes its sitting today.

Budget 'ensures weakest in society get the most help'
Chan Chun Sing refutes WP's arguments that Budget adopted 'wait-and-see attitude'
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

Budget 2017 was neither politically motivated nor one that took a "wait-and-see attitude", Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Chan Chun Sing said yesterday when he refuted the arguments of the Workers' Party (WP).

Instead, the two major issues that the Budget sought to address were how Singaporeans could continue to make a living, and how they might look after one another, he said. A key thrust of the Budget was to distribute limited resources in a way that gave the greatest help to those who need it most.

Non-Constituency MP (NCMP) Leon Perera, from the WP, said on Tuesday that it made "political sense" for the Government to introduce price hikes now "because people have three years to forget them before the next general election".

His fellow NCMP Daniel Goh described the Budget as a "wait-and-see" move by the Government as it prepares for the changes that will affect the economy and workers.

Yesterday, Mr Chan, in rejecting their observations, said the Budget is about building "the kind of society that we aspire to be".

He cited the values of inclusiveness and social mobility, saying: "We want to give everybody a fair chance. We want social mobility. And that is what defines Singapore."

As resources are finite, more help given to one person means less for another, he noted.

Hence, when there was a need to raise taxes or prices, it took courage on the part of political leaders to say that those who are richer have to foot a bigger bill so that the poorer people can get more help.

The approach also helps bring about a fairer society, added Mr Chan, who is also the secretary- general of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC).

It avoids what a fellow union leader called the "sedimentation model" in which resources are distributed such that those who get to dip into the pot first will get to pick the best.

If such an approach takes root, Mr Chan warned, it will become harder to change.

The Government announced increases in water prices and diesel, and plans to introduce carbon taxes because it was the responsible thing to do, Mr Chan reiterated.

"A responsible government is one that prices the essentials properly, not distorts the market, leading to more subsidies that will burden our future generations.

"A responsible government is someone who knows what is not sustainable and will put a stop to it now. This is not a wait-and-see Budget," he said.

If it were a wait-and-see Budget or one motivated by political timing, the Government would not have introduced carbon pricing, diesel and water taxes, he added.

Mr Chan's speech yesterday came one day after Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S. Iswaran outlined the Government's broad and targeted measures to help Singapore companies overcome headwinds as well as grow and expand overseas.

Besides responding to the WP MPs, Mr Chan also spoke of the pressures of maintaining a Budget surplus, NTUC's plan to help workers and the water price hike in his wide-ranging, 45-minute speech.

He also distributed a picture of a trimaran sailboat to the MPs to illustrate the seven strategies in the recent report of the Committee on the Future Economy.

Mr Chan also addressed criticisms that the Government had ignored the short-term pain felt by some.

He said the Government had provided targeted help because it feels the people's pain. "If indeed this is a cynical government, then we shouldn't be giving anything at all."

Managing the economy is not like turning the thermostat in an air-conditioned room to make the temperature go up or down, he said, noting that Budget 2017 is about addressing both short-term pain and long-term challenges.

"We know the pressures in the short term, we are doing what we can in a targeted manner. But more importantly, we know the long-term challenges facing our country and we will do what is right, what is necessary to leave behind a better state for our future generations."

Labour movement to work on job creation and placement
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

Labour MPs are not going to put their hands out and ask for more money from Budget 2017, said labour chief Chan Chun Sing.

Instead, the labour movement will work with employers and the Government to create jobs and help workers get them, Mr Chan told Parliament, in a speech that laid out how the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) will tackle the scarcity of jobs in a slowing economy.

"Grants and subsidies alone won't create jobs, especially sustainable jobs," he said, adding: "The crux (of job creation) must come from our businesses, our access to markets and our innovation."

Speaking on the second day of debate on Budget 2017, he mapped out the steps that NTUC is taking.

It will consolidate the vacancies and job seekers' databases in the market so that it does not matter which centres those looking for jobs go to, he said.

He added: "We are even prepared to work with (private) agencies like LinkedIn to ensure that we do our placement well and do it faster."

To help workers pick up skills for future jobs, NTUC will work with and even prod institutions of higher learning to produce training modules relevant to employers.

"If we are not satisfied with the speed to market, we will work on it, we will improve, we will fix it," Mr Chan said. "So we are not going to talk about theories. We want to get things done."

Besides helping workers, the unions will continue to work with companies to raise productivity, added the Minister in the Prime Minister's Office. "It is a hard slog, it is not easy, but we are committed to do this."

He believed that the key to raising productivity lies in the 23 Industry Transformation Maps that the unions, employers and government agencies are working on. These plans cover 80 per cent of the economy and can raise productivity in the various sectors if implemented well.

Mr Chan also disclosed that the Manpower Ministry has formed a task force to study the implications of the rising number of freelancers and contract workers in the economy. New mindsets are needed to help protect these workers' legal and financial rights and help them plan for their retirement, he said.

The NTUC will support the ministry review, he added.

More information on the task force and review is expected to be disclosed by the ministry when its Budget is debated in Parliament next week.

Govt spends ‘on the side of caution’ amid volatility, says Chan Chun Sing
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

In Budget 2017, about $14 billion of the $70 billion for government spending will come from the returns from past savings.

This means that "$1 out of every $5 that we are spending in this Budget comes from the income from our reserves", and this net investment income share looks set to rise with demands going up and revenues possibly shrinking, said Mr Chan Chun Sing, Minister in the Prime Minister's Office.

He also warned that the expected Budget surplus this year hangs in the balance because of the volatile economic situation and rising spending needs.

Some of the top contributors to the government coffers, such as net investment returns and corporate income taxes, are subject to the vagaries of economic cycles that are not within the Government's control, Mr Chan said.

So there is a need to "err on the side of caution" by ensuring government spending remains prudent and sustainable, he added.



Mr Chan made these points yesterday, the second day of the parliamentary debate on Budget 2017, after some MPs expressed concern that the Budget did not provide enough help for households and small and medium-sized enterprises hit by the slowing economy and rising costs.

In particular, Non-Constituency MP Leon Perera, who is from the Workers' Party, asked if the Government held back on spending this year "to keep ammunition in reserve for closer to the election".

He said recent Budgets had followed a pattern of racking up a surplus early in the Government's term, then incurring deficits closer to the general election.

Mr Chan refuted this, saying the Government does not adopt "such a cynical attitude to budgeting".

Budget 2017 contained measures to provide short-term relief to the hardest-hit companies, such as those in the offshore and marine sector, as well as rebates for lower- income households.

"If indeed this is a cynical government, then we shouldn't be giving anything at all," Mr Chan added.

Indeed, the latest Budget was made possible by prudent spending in previous terms of government, as well as judicious management of Singapore's reserves, he said.

He also noted that the net investment returns contribution overtook corporate income tax to be the No. 1 contributor to government coffers for the first time in the 2016 financial year.

But the amount of net investment income - as well as other top contributors to revenue - is subject to the ups and downs in the economy, he said.

"The top four (sources of) revenue are net investment income, corporate tax, goods and services tax (GST) and income tax, but these are all subject to factors outside the Government's control, he noted.

"Net investment income depends on the status of the world economy. Corporate tax and income tax will be similarly cyclical according to the world economy. Even GST, to a less extent, will be cyclical," he said.

This means that the $1.9 billion surplus expected in Budget 2017 could be at risk.

"Will we realise this $2 billion surplus?" Mr Chan said. "What if the economy turns soft and we don't realise the full amount that we have budgeted for the net investment income, but instead we need more money to help fellow Singaporeans? How much can we afford and how much more do we have?"

The Government has to keep spending on a "steady path", he added. "Making sure that we address the short-term pains, while establishing the conditions for our long- term success, is never either or. It is always both."

Price hike reflects scarcity value of water: Masagos
Minister cites examples of how costs have risen, but says water will still be affordable
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

After two days of the Budget debate saw many MPs focusing on the impact of the water price hike, Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli yesterday took the House back to 1997, when water prices were last revised.

Back then, elements in Malaysia were threatening to block the supply of water from Johor, and Singapore was just embarking on desalination.

Hence, the Government needed to register with Singaporeans the strategic importance of water.

It therefore decided to revise water prices substantially to reflect its true scarcity value, he told MPs in his first remarks to the House about the hike since it was announced in the Budget statement last week.

"If we needed any additional water, where would it come from? How much would that additional litre cost? That is what we call the 'long run marginal cost' (LRMC). That is the cost which consumers should see," Mr Masagos said.

Water price increases were introduced progressively between 1997 and 2000.

Since then, water technology has progressed. Newater - which is much cheaper than desalination - came about in 2002, and desalination technology has advanced.

"As a result, we have been able to keep down the cost of water, and to hold water prices unchanged for 17 years," said Mr Masagos. "But costs have gradually gone up. At some point, a price revision becomes essential."

Water prices will go up by 30 per cent in two stages, starting in July.

The magnitude of the hike has ignited much discussion over the past week, but Singaporeans should ask what this 30 per cent translates to in reality, said Mr Masagos.

He noted that 75 per cent of businesses will see a water-bill hike of less than $25 a month - or less than a dollar a day. One- and two-room HDB households will not see any rise on average, while most other HDB households will see bills going up by between $2 and $11 a month.

"Water will still be affordable. It will still remain within 1 per cent of household income," he said.

Mr Masagos also highlighted three examples of how costs have risen, making a price hike essential.

First, more desalination plants will have to be built to increase Singapore's water supply, as there is a limit to reclaiming used water for Newater. Three desalination plants are in fact being built within the next three years, he said.

Second, as the proportion of used water being reclaimed for Newater goes up, effluent - or sewage - becomes more concentrated and more difficult and costly to treat.

Third, building new and replacement pipes to deliver water has become more costly.

Mr Masagos cited how tunnelling below the road to lay pipelines now costs 21/2 times as much as the traditional method.

These point to the need to update the LRMC - which the 30 per cent price increase has reflected, he said. He could not, however, disclose details of the computation owing to "commercial sensitivities".

He said revealing the specifics could prejudice future bids for desalination, Newater and water reclamation plants. "But rest assured that the LRMC reflects the best the market can offer," he added.

While his ministry will continue to plan and build the infrastructure, it is only through the right pricing that people will realise the value water has as a strategic resource, and consciously conserve it, he added.

"With the 30 per cent increase that we have announced, the price will be close to, though still slightly lower than, the price of the next drop (of water) or LRMC today," he said. "This is the best way to emphasise the scarcity value of water."

Addressing a question raised by Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) on whether technology is taken into account in computing this cost, Mr Masagos said "technologically, we have squeezed everything we can from the current water processing technology". "It will take several more years to achieve the next breakthrough and bring it to a deployable scale," he added.

Why costs have gone up
The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

MORE DESALINATION PLANTS MUST BE BUILT

• Three plants being built in the next three years.

• First-year price for Singapore's first plant, SingSpring, was $0.78 per cubic m in 2005. The first-year price for the latest plant in Marina East is $1.08 per cubic m.

• This is a 40 per cent increase.


MORE USED WATER IS BEING RECLAIMED FOR NEWATER

• As effluent gets more concentrated, it is harder and costlier to treat.


MORE EXPENSIVE TO BUILD, REPLACE PIPES FOR WATER

• Tunnelling below roads costs 21/2 times as much as the traditional method of laying pipes.

• PUB has to renew some 50km of pipes a year, up from 20km today.

• Seventy-five per cent of businesses will see an increase of less than $25 per month in water bills. This is less than $1 a day.

• Additional U-Save rebates mean one- and two-room HDB households will not see any increase on average. Bills for other HDB households will go up by $2 to $11 per month.

Water an existential issue for Singapore, says Chan Chun Sing
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

The intense debate on the water price hike over the past two days shows Singapore needs to do much more to raise awareness of its water issues, Minister Chan Chun Sing told the House.

"We need to do much more to socialise our people to the challenges that we are facing on the water front," he said.

"The fact that we have such an intense discussion reflects that we have left this issue off our national psyche for too long."

He said it would be too much for him or the Government to expect everyone to defend the price rise, but added that MPs had to get certain basics right no matter which side they were on.

He asked: "Do we agree that water is existential to our country's survival? Do we agree that we should price water properly? If we agree on these two questions, we can go to the mechanics of how to price it properly, what we should consider."



Mr Chan, a former army chief, said an entire generation that has worn uniform knows what this means, adding that Workers' Party MP Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) used to serve with him in the same unit.

The Government spares no effort to manage the risks all these years, he added, recalling how when he was in primary school, there were three reservoirs. Today, there are 17, plus desalination and Newater plants.

"How many more desalination plants and how many more Newater plants must we build in order for water to never be a weapon pointing at our heads?" he said, adding that two-thirds of Singapore's entire land area is now a water catchment area.

A lot of money is also spent to ensure not a drop of water is wasted. "Some countries lose up to 5 to 10 per cent of their water supply through leaky pipes. If we lose 5 per cent of our water through leaky pipes, we need to build one more Newater plant."

There is never an easy way to stress the value of water, he said, noting the 30 per cent increase over two years is the first in 17 years - which works out to about a 1.6 per cent rise each year.

"We can do this every year. We can do this every five years," he said. "We can do this every 10 years but regardless which way we choose, we have to make sure that we never forget - that water is existential."

Masagos Zulkifli: Securing Singapore's water future
The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

Among this year's Budget announcements, the planned hike in water prices has stirred the most debate. Yesterday, Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli set out in a speech to Parliament why, after 17 years, a price revision is needed.

In Singapore, water is unlike any other ordinary commodity. We subsidise housing, healthcare, education, but not water consumption.

Water is a strategic issue. It is a national security issue. We must price water fully. Even as we give targeted assistance to households, such as U-Save vouchers to help them pay for their utility bills, we must price water correctly. The consumer must feel the price of water, realise how valuable water is in Singapore, every time he or she turns on the tap, right from the first drop.



Let me take us back to the last time the Government revised the price of water, which was 1997. We had not revised water prices for some time then. Elements in Malaysia were threatening to block our supply of water from Johor. We were embarking on desalination to secure our water supply. We needed to register with Singaporeans the strategic importance of water, and the importance of saving every drop possible.

The Government therefore decided to revise the water price substantially, to reflect water's true scarcity value. If we needed any additional water, where would it come from? How much would that additional litre cost? That is what we call the Long Run Marginal Cost (LRMC). That is the cost which consumers must see.

At that time and even today, the Johor supply was fixed. Local reservoirs had been almost fully developed, maybe except for the Marina Reservoir. Newater was not even invented in 1997. It came later in 2002. Apart from conventional methods of collecting rainwater, the only proven technology then was to produce drinking water through desalination. And desalination was very expensive, at $3 to $3.50 per cubic metre, through the multi-stage flash distillation. This number did not even include cost of pipelines.

There was no way for the Government then to move the water price to the true cost of the next litre - the price of desalination, so it was moved instead in steps, over the period 1997 to 2000, to today's water price.

Since then, water technology has progressed steadily. PUB itself invested in R&D. This resulted in Newater, which was much cheaper than desalination.

Desalination technology has improved, from multi-stage flash distillation to membranes today. As a result, we have been able to keep down the cost of water, and to hold water prices unchanged for 17 years. But costs have gone up gradually over the years. At some point, a price revision becomes essential.

Let me give a few examples of how costs have risen in the recent review. Firstly, the LRMC is a mix of Newater and desalination costs. Now, in the blend between Newater and desalination, we have to depend more on desalination for the next litre as water demand increases. There is also a limit to recycling used water in our Newater plants. Therefore, to increase our water supply further, we must build more desalination plants. In fact, we are building three desalination plants within the next three years.

Secondly, as we increase the proportion of used water being reclaimed for Newater, effluent becomes more concentrated and more difficult and costly to process.

Thirdly, Singapore is becoming more urbanised, so it is costing us more to build the new and replacement pipes to deliver water.

Here are some figures from our recent expenditures, which will give an indication of how it will be in future. Looking at the first-year price of desalination, for instance, while the first-year price for our first plant, SingSpring desalination plant, was 78 cents/cubic metre (2005), the first-year price of our latest plant at Marina East was $1.08/cubic metre, some 40 per cent increase. For conveyance costs, we now tunnel below the road to lay pipelines. This minimises inconvenience to road users and the public, but it costs 21/2 times as much as conventional pipe-laying techniques. Also as our pipelines age, PUB will have to more than double the rate of renewal for old pipelines from the current 20km per year to 50km per year, to minimise pipe leaks and disruptions.

All these point to the need to update the LRMC, which the 30 per cent price increase has reflected. We are unable to provide details of its computation because of commercial sensitivities. We still need to build more desalination plants and Newater plants. As more desalination, Newater and water reclamation plants are yet to be built or expanded, revealing the specifics of the LRMC could prejudice future bids. But rest assured that the LRMC reflects the best the market can offer.

Mr Pritam Singh asked whether technology is taken into account in the computation of LRMC. My answer is a definite yes - it has always been and it is also the case for this review. Technologically, we have squeezed everything we can from the current water processing technology. It will take several more years to achieve the next breakthrough and bring it to a deployable scale.

I thank members for reminding the House that we have had a serious problem with the depletion of Linggiu Reservoir in recent years. It is not clear if the current situation is due to climate change, but we cannot discount the possibility that such dry weather may persist, and in the future when climate change effects become more pronounced, it will be more severe.

As members are aware, Johor is also drawing water from the Johor River, and Singapore is discussing this with Malaysia to ensure that Johor's actions do not compromise our ability to draw the 250mgd that Singapore is entitled to from the Johor River under the 1962 Water Agreement.

What is clear is that Linggiu is operating today at a level way below what we are comfortable with, and it will take years to build up again to a reliable capacity.

Taking all these together, there is therefore urgency to have our policies, including right pricing, in place so that we can moderate demand by both businesses and households, while also building the infrastructure we need to have a secure water supply.

It is the job of my ministry and PUB to plan and build the infrastructure, which we will do, but it is only through right pricing that we can have everyone valuing water as a strategic resource and consciously conserving it. With the 30 per cent increase that we have announced, the price will be close to, though still slightly lower than, the price of the next drop or LRMC today. This is the best way to emphasise the scarcity value of water.

Members have expressed concerns over the magnitude of 30 per cent. Clearly, this 30 per cent increase has generated a lot of discussion on water. I hope it also raises awareness of scarcity and strategic value where water is concerned. But what does 30 per cent translate to in reality? For businesses, 75 per cent will see an increase of less than $25 per month in water bills. This is less than a dollar a day. Indeed, I am heartened that some businesses have taken this increase in context and have explicitly said that they would not increase prices. For households, the Government has provided additional U-Save rebates. One- and two-room HDB households will not experience any increase on average. For other HDB flat types, monthly water bills will go up by between $2 and $11 per month. Overall, water will still be affordable. It will remain at about 1 per cent of household income. So, that is what the 30 per cent price revision translates to - less than a dollar a day for 75 per cent of our businesses, and still within 1 per cent of household income for water expenses.

Let me conclude. Despite our investments in desalination and Newater plants, the truth is that we are still a water-stressed nation. Singapore was ranked first among countries with the greatest risk of high water stress in 2040, according to the World Resources Institute. It is not a description of what we do, it is a description of who we are. We hope that through right pricing, everyone will cultivate the habit of water saving as part of Singapore's DNA, whether we are a household or business.



Just this morning, I attended a water rationing exercise at Woodgrove Secondary School. Many other schools are participating this year, to raise awareness of the value of water and importance of water conservation among our young.

Even during the prolonged dry spell in 2014, Singapore did not face any serious shortages, because we had Newater and desalination plants. There was no water rationing. But water conservation was something earlier generations of Singaporeans had imbibed. Singaporeans back then knew that every now and then, elements in Malaysia were threatening to turn off our taps.

So they bore with water rationing, supported water-saving campaigns and even paid the cost of cleaning up rivers and their catchment areas.

Indeed, it is because of our obsessive focus on water and the collective determination of the earlier generations of Singaporeans and PUB officers that we were able to manage our water vulnerabilities. If we take this same approach, we will secure our water future for ourselves and our children, and that, I think members will agree, is well worth doing.

Chan Chun Sing: Jobs for today and tomorrow, and protection for workers
The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

Labour chief Chan Chun Sing joined the Budget debate yesterday. Here is an edited excerpt of his speech.

The core questions in this Budget are: How do we earn a living for ourselves and our country, and how do we take care of each other?

Let us take a look at our Budget position. This year, we have a Budget of about $70 billion. Out of that, $14 billion comes from our net investment income, which means that for every $5 we spend, $1 comes from savings; from the income from our reserves.

The top four revenue streams of our Budget are: net investment income, corporate tax, GST and income tax. This year, the No. 1 income stream out of these four is net investment income.

That was not the position a few years ago. Out of these four, how many of them are really under our control? Net investment income depends on the status of the world economy. Corporate tax and income tax will be similarly cyclical according to the world economy. Is this a sustainable position going forward? I always joke with some friends that our corporate tax rate and income tax rate are not set independently by the Minister for Finance, who has to watch like a hawk what our competitors are doing. Some have commented that we are running a surplus. What if the economy turns soft and we don't realise the full amount that we have budgeted for the net investment income, but instead we need more money to help fellow Singaporeans if the economy turns further south? How much can we afford and how much more do we have? One programme like Workfare costs us $600 million or $700 million. So if the revenue comes down and the needs go up, I am not so confident that the $1.9 billion surplus we have budgeted for will necessarily come true.

Some members in the House say that this Budget is a political Budget, that we spend less this time due to the political cycle.

Then there is a suggestion that we are ignoring the short-term pains of the economy. Is that so? If that were so, why did Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat announce targeted measures to help specific sectors like the offshore and marine sector, or the $700 million we pushed into the construction sector?

If that is so, why do we spend money to increase U-Save rebates to make sure that even though prices may increase on average, we will take care of the lower-income first?

Managing our economy is not like turning the thermostat in an air-conditioned room. The competition across the world is intense. Some countries lose their footing, get into a downward spiral and never recover. Our job is to keep ourselves on a steady path, making sure that we address the short-term pains while establishing the conditions for our long-term success. It is never either or. It is always both.

Next, there is a lot of focus on what this Budget has that is new. But what is ongoing is also important. Every time we make a commitment to spend, it has a long tail, which means that there are future commitments that we need to adhere to, to keep our word to our people. Every time we have a long tail, it eats into what in budgetary terms we call the white space for the future, which means that the more we commit upfront with the long tail, the less degree of flexibility we have in going forward to meet contingencies and to seize opportunities. We must all bear in mind that many things are still ongoing: Workfare, U-Save rebates, the commitment that we have done for SkillsFuture and so forth.



Let me speak on how we earn a living. In NTUC, we have three priorities for this year: jobs, jobs and jobs. Jobs for those people who are displaced today. Jobs for those people who might be displaced tomorrow. Grants and subsidies alone won't create jobs, especially sustainable jobs. Grants and subsidies enable and help, but the crux of the matter are our businesses, access to markets and innovation, how good our workers are to keep pace with the demand for new skills, how good our regulatory environment is to enable new businesses.

And when we look at our Budget, this is what we see. The ministries of Trade and Industry, Manpower and Education and many agencies are all focused on these four basic issues to support our businesses: enable innovation, enable internationalisation, enable SkillsFuture and enable a more progressive regulatory environment for start-up businesses.

What ties these together is our ability to implement our industry transformation maps well because they cover 80 per cent of our sectors. Implementation is key. The labour movement wants to work with our Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and businesses to strengthen the job placement system for everyone. We want to form the national database; we will integrate the back end so that it does not matter which career centre you go to. We're even prepared to work with agencies like LinkedIn to ensure that we do our placements well and do them faster.

But placements are only for today's unemployed. We have to prepare to help tomorrow's unemployed into tomorrow's jobs, to overcome potential structural unemployment. This is why NTUC is raising $200 million on top of what we have in our NTUC education and training fund to work with our IHLs to come up with national modules, stackable modules and just-in-time modules. This will require a national effort. We need to do much better. I have never been entirely satisfied with our speed to market for generating new modules relevant to industry needs.

Protection. Many of the labour MPs spoke about protection for freelancers and contract workers. These are new forms of employment and we need new mental models to help these workers protect their legal rights, financial rights, help them to plan for their retirement and so forth. That is why the Ministry of Manpower is initiating a work group with businesses and the labour movement to study the implications of such long-term structural changes to our employment market. We have to get this right, to make sure that all working people can have peace of mind.

Finally, jobs for tomorrow will require us to work very hard on productivity. I visit one to two companies every week. There's no magic bullet to raise productivity just by macro policy measures. Each and every business has to re-examine its processes together with workers and management to raise productivity. It is a hard slog but we are committed to this. This is where the 23 industry transformation maps come in. They are the amalgamation of the efforts of the Government, businesses and labour movement. We get this right, we move the needle for 80 per cent of the market. If we don't get this right, there will be no productivity gains and no sustainable wage increases for our workers.

Government will help firms seize opportunities: S. Iswaran
SMEs will get all possible help to pursue growth in a changing world, he promises
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 1 Mar 2017

Amid the challenges they face in a slowing economy - and a changing world - small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will get all possible help from the Government to transform themselves into future engines of growth.

Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S. Iswaran gave this commitment on the first day of debate on the Government's Budget for the coming financial year, after several MPs highlighted the squeeze that SMEs were feeling.

After the Committee on the Future Economy report and the Budget statement, he said, the key question was where the opportunities for growth lay and how Singapore could seize them.

Fortunately, Singapore was situated in the heart of the region - Asean, China and India - that was driving global growth, he said.

At the same time, cities in Asia were looking for urban solutions and to build their infrastructure - areas in which Singapore companies were well known.

The digital economy also offered an opportunity for even the smallest company to seek customers in the farthest markets, he said.

"Our challenge is to ensure that our companies are geared up for the longer term so that they can seize these opportunities," said Mr Iswaran.

That is where the Government planned to step in and help firms, especially the smaller players, grasp these chances.

There were schemes being put in place to help SMEs internationalise, he said. This included the Budget's $600 million International Partnership Fund to help firms expand abroad.

The Government also had a suite of loan programmes ready to help SMEs finance their expansion.

The SMEs Go Digital Programme, announced during the Budget, would help SMEs digitise their products and services, he said.

In addition, there was also a variety of schemes available to SMEs to develop the skills of their workers.

He added a caveat. The environment was more uncertain and the Government's emphasis was on broad measures to help industries as a whole.

"Companies that are prepared to go further and faster will get more help," he said. "But that does not mean we are picking winners. The winners are picking themselves and adapting to our schemes."

He cited several companies, such as Memiontec and HipVan, that have seized such opportunities.

Mr Iswaran's speech came after six of the 10 MPs who spoke before him expressed concerns that the Budget did not offer enough aid for SMEs hit by the slowing economy.

He said that in the shorter term, there were targeted measures for sectors that had been harder hit, such as marine and offshore engineering, and construction.

But the most durable solution lay in moving up the value curve, innovating and offering products and services that others were not offering, he said.

"There is no lack of government resolve or resources available to help our companies, especially SMEs, successfully transform."

Businesses feel the pinch of higher costs, say MPs
They understand reason for moves, but hope more can be done to help firms cope
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 1 Mar 2017

The water price hike and new diesel tax announced in this year's Budget are a strain on smaller businesses already grappling with higher operating costs, five MPs said yesterday.

While they acknowledged that the Government had valid reasons for the measures, they hoped more could be done to help companies cope with these new costs.

Such relief would be especially helpful in the current uncertain business environment and slower economic growth, they added.

Said Mr Lim Biow Chuan (Mountbatten): "I don't believe that businesses are hoping for a handout from the Government.

"What they are appealing for is a business climate which is less costly and friendlier to businesses."

About one-third of the 17 MPs who spoke on the first day of the Budget debate addressed the challenges of running a business in Singapore.

Opening the four-hour debate in Parliament, Mr Liang Eng Hwa (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) said: "The general response from businesses to this year's Budget has not been positive."

Companies are feeling the effects of sluggish growth, added Mr Liang, who is chairman of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Finance and Trade and Industry.

There are fewer orders and "as a result, more competition and compressed (profit) margins". "At the same time, they see business costs continuously creeping up," he said.

"The increase in water prices and the diesel duty do not help the situation, even as the businesses can understand the reasons for the hikes," he added.

In his Budget statement on Monday last week, Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat announced a 30 per cent increase in water prices that will be implemented in two phases, on July 1 this year and July 1 next year. The diesel duty, however, took effect immediately on Budget Day, with 10 cents imposed on every litre for several diesel products to curb usage.

MPs noted that some industries were hit badly and this may, in turn, affect households via higher costs of living.

Mr Liang said food manufacturers were concerned as water and diesel form a significant part of their production chain.

There are also no direct rebates in the Budget to help them.

Similarly, Non-Constituency MP Dennis Tan said transport and delivery costs would go up since diesel oil is the primary fuel for delivery trucks and vans. "This will affect the operating cost of businesses that depend directly or indirectly on transport services," he said in Mandarin.

Non-Constituency MP Leon Perera criticised the hikes as coming too soon, as electricity tariffs, gas prices and parking fees had been raised in recent months. He said: "Why introduce all these price hikes now, at a time of relative economic fragility, when they could tip some SMEs at the margins over the edge?"

Workers' Party MP Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) said the Government should reveal more details of how water is priced, so Singaporeans can better understand why water prices are being raised by 30 per cent. For instance, he wanted to know how the cost of maintaining water infrastructure, including pipe networks to transmit water, has changed over the years.

He also asked for the cost of producing water in the different desalination and Newater plants, and whether falling water levels in Johor's Linggiu Reservoir - from which Singapore draws water - was a factor in the decision to adjust the water prices here.

Mr Singh also suggested that water prices be adjusted to reward households that use less water, such as offering a 10 per cent rebate for those who show a corresponding drop in water consumption.

Nominated MP and Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Thomas Chua acknowledged that the Government raised water prices to ensure a sustainable supply.

But companies do not see it this way, he said. "The major concerns of businesses are operational costs, while the Government's concern is the nation's mid- to long- term competitiveness."

He hoped the Government would help reduce costs, and urged firms to review their operations if they cannot keep up with these changes in the external environment.

Said Mr Chua: "Singaporean enterprises have to innovate boldly in order to adapt to this new business environment."

Additional reporting by Chong Zi Liang

Opportunities for firms willing to innovate, go global
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 1 Mar 2017

Singapore's maturing economy is adjusting to a slower pace of growth, but there are still significant opportunities available for companies keen on innovating and expanding abroad, Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S. Iswaran said yesterday.

Also, measures have been put in place to help companies in the worst-hit sectors.

He stressed that Singapore's long-term prosperity hinges on it being able to nurture and grow innovative companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Mr Iswaran was speaking during the Budget debate, after several MPs lamented the lack of financial relief for struggling SMEs.

Businesses are hoping for some relief, Mr Lim Biow Chuan (Mountbatten) said, adding: "However, it seems their hopes will not materialise... For most of the smaller businesses, this year's Budget is a non-event."

Nominated MP Thomas Chua, who is president of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was circumspect. It will be tough to strike a balance between businesses' short-term concerns about operational costs and the Government's longer-term considerations about the country's economic competitiveness, he said.

Mr Iswaran said performance across sectors has been uneven, with some facing significant headwinds.

While the Budget did not introduce additional broad measures for companies, the hardest-hit industries had received some short-term relief.

For instance, measures rolled out last November for the marine and offshore engineering sector aimed to help companies meet short-term cash flow needs and get new loans to continue to take up projects.

Levy hikes for work permit holders in the marine and process sectors were also deferred for another year.

The 2016 SME Working Capital Loan has acted as a catalyst in the disbursement of more than $700 million in loans to about 4,300 SMEs, he noted.

Mr Iswaran stressed that companies need to gear up for the long term and be prepared to take advantage of emerging opportunities in key sectors.

Citing infrastructure and urban solutions, he said: "Our infrastructure and urban solutions companies are held in high regard and can participate... in partnership with their Chinese, Indian and regional counterparts. This is not just an opportunity for big players."

He reiterated that SMEs are at the centre of efforts to transform Singapore's economy. He listed a plethora of schemes to help companies expand overseas, innovate and deepen their capabilities. These include:

- $400 million in grants to companies going international.

- The $36 million Technology Adoption Programme and the $45 million Get-Up scheme to build up innovation capabilities by seconding public-sector researchers to SMEs.

- A suite of loan programmes that will collectively catalyse $5 billion in loans up to 2020.

"The Government is resolute in our commitment to help our SMEs (transform) successfully. Large companies do not necessarily need this breadth of support.

"It is the small companies that need them," Mr Iswaran said.

S.Iswaran: SMEs are 'a central focus in transforming our economy'
The Straits Times, 1 Mar 2017

An edited extract of Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S.Iswaran's speech in Parliament yesterday

After the Committee on the Future Economy (CFE) report and last week's Budget statement, there has been much discussion on the economy in the lead-up to this debate. The central questions are where are the opportunities, how do we position ourselves to seize them, and what can we do to deal with short-term challenges. These involved policy decisions and trade-offs. These sentiments have also been echoed by some members today.

THERE ARE SIGNIFICANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR SINGAPORE COMPANIES IN THE REGION

Last year our economy grew at 2 per cent, with growth picking up in the final quarter. Between 2011 and 2016, we averaged 3.1 per cent, which is comparable to other advanced and regional economies. The CFE expects annual growth of 2 to 3 per cent over the next decade. This may be less than what we were accustomed to in the past, but it is consistent with our stage of economic development, our demographic profile, so we need to ensure that within the context of where we are today, we continue to emphasise productivity and innovation as part of the basis for continued growth. This is because with this standard of economic growth, which is not insignificant by international comparisons, it will allow us to continue to create opportunities for our businesses and good jobs for our people.

We are also situated at the heart of a region that is an important driver of global economic growth. Asean, China and India are bright spots, with the Asean-5 countries expected to grow at 4.9 per cent in 2017, China at 6.7 per cent and India at 6.6 per cent. Their growth emanates not just from the key regions and main cities, but increasingly from the next tier of cities and regions with which we might be less familiar. We need to go beyond traditional spaces and deepen our knowledge and acquire a more nuanced understanding of these new markets.

In tandem with this growth in the region, we see rapid urbanisation and the rise of the Asian middle class with greater disposable incomes and sophisticated demand in sectors like retail, lifestyle, F&B, education and healthcare.

These emerging opportunities play to strengths that we have developed over the years. One example is in infrastructure and urban solutions. McKinsey estimates that the demand for infrastructure in emerging Asian markets, particularly China, South-east Asia and South Asia, will grow by US$20 trillion (S$28 trillion) between 2016 and 2030.

China's One Belt, One Road initiative has heightened interest in regional infrastructure projects (road, rail, ports, airports). India's plan to build 100 smart cities needs adaptable and high-quality urban solutions. Our infrastructure and urban solutions companies are held in high regard and can participate in these opportunities, in partnership with their Chinese, Indian and regional counterparts. This is just not an opportunity for big players. In fact, it extends to SMEs like Memiontec and WaterTech Private, which tap into the demand for small-scale water and energy solutions in the region. In this Budget, the key initiative is really the extension of our Internationalisation Finance Scheme (IFS) for non-recourse financing. It is aimed at helping our smaller businesses go regional and seek opportunities.



The digital economy also presents unprecedented opportunities. The smallest company can now seek customers in the furthest markets as long as there is digital access. Companies, regardless of size, can reach out to customers anywhere through digital channels, transact with business partners and seek out payment solutions. Literally transformative. It is transforming industries and offering new ways to overcome our constraints and seek out new opportunities. That is why the CFE has emphasised the importance of enabling our companies to harness digital technologies and platforms. Some companies have already made the move. HipVan, a popular furniture and home decor store, has primarily used e-commerce platforms to build its business. Its customers make their purchases online; their manufacturing is distributed; and they work with logistics partners on delivery. It also deploys data analytics and digital marketing tools to spot trends and expand their reach internationally. HipVan has reinvented the traditional furniture business model through digitalisation. We have also seen initiatives from larger companies to establish digital platforms for the benefit of SMEs. Just today, Singtel, a co-founder of the 99% SME movement along with DBS, announced a partnership with Lazada to set up an SME e-marketplace, and help SMEs tap into a wider online customer base.

HELPING SMES SEIZE THESE OPPORTUNITIES

These are just some examples of the opportunities that lie before us. Our challenge is to ensure that our companies are geared up for the longer term so that they can seize these opportunities. This is especially important to sustain our competitiveness and growth as others are also similarly adapting themselves. Hence, this is a key focus of the Government's economic efforts. The Industry Transformation Maps are a key modality with sector specific strategies that will cover three broad areas:

First, to grow top line and scale, we support companies in internationalisation and financing.

Second, to remain competitive, we support capability development, both to innovate and raise productivity.

Third, we support the development of deep skills in our workers.

In all of these assistance and development efforts, the primary focus and beneficiaries are our SMEs. And for good reasons. First, SMEs are a significant part of our economy. They account for about half of our GDP growth and two-thirds of employment. To effect change and transformation in the economy, they have to accept the reality, embrace the change and be change agents. Second, individually, they often lack the scale to make the investments necessary to cope with the changes taking place and to benefit fully from the opportunities. Finally, they are the key engine of our future growth and integral to the competitiveness of our economic clusters. As SMEs scale, they will create more opportunities and jobs for Singaporeans.

Therefore, the Government is resolute in our commitment to help our SMEs make this transformation successfully. Large companies do not necessary need this breadth of support. It is the small companies that need them. Let me briefly outline five areas in which we support SMEs.

GROWING TOP LINE AND SCALING UP: INTERNATIONALISATION AND FINANCING

First, internationalisation. If you are a company taking the first step towards internationalisation, you can tap on IE's Market Readiness Assistance and the Global Company Partnership Scheme to study and understand the market before growing your international footprint. We have set aside $400 million in grants to support internationalisation. The Government can be an enabler but we cannot make the decision for the companies. In this Budget, we have set up the $600 million International Partnership Fund to co-invest with firms to help them expand overseas.

Second, financing. The Government has a suite of loan programmes which will collectively catalyse $5 billion in loans up to 2020. This includes the SME Equipment Loan and the SME Factory Loan. The Monetary Authority of Singapore has also recently reviewed our regulations to enhance the ability of finance companies to provide financing to SMEs.

Earlier, I mentioned that the infrastructure sector in particular afforded significant growth opportunities for Singapore companies. At this Budget, we also introduced the IFS for Non-Recourse Financing to help SMEs participate in these opportunities. This scheme is designed to encourage financial institutions to provide non-recourse loans to SMEs once projects move into the post-construction stage, so that SMEs can free up their balance sheets to take on new projects. The constraint today is that small businesses tie up their resources through personal or corporate guarantees and it limits their ability to take on new projects.

This scheme is targeted at helping businesses in an effective way. Over the next five years, we expect to catalyse $600 million dollars in loans, which will correspond to approximately $1 billion in infrastructure projects.

HELPING SMES STAY COMPETITIVE: INNOVATION AND CAPABILITY DEVELOPMENT

Third, innovation. Our SMEs want to create new products and services that can differentiate them in the market but they are constrained by resources available for R&D. Hence, we have a range of schemes ($100 million) to help SMEs commercialise intellectual property (IP) through our network of Centres of Innovation; and to help SMEs build up their innovation capabilities through the secondment of public sector researchers to our SMEs ($36 million Technology Adoption Programme and $45 million Get-Up scheme). At this Budget, we announced the A*Star Tech Access Initiative, to help SMEs gain access to costly specialised equipment, user training and advice; and extended the A*Star Headstart Programme, which lets SMEs enjoy royalty-free and exclusive IP licences for 36 months, up from 18 months.

Fourth, capability development. SMEs can tap on the Capability Development Grant (CDG) for larger-scale projects, including automation under the Automation Support Package. CDG also supports projects to raise productivity and develop new competencies. SMEs can also utilise the Innovation and Capability Voucher to flexibly take on smaller upgrading projects. We also have Pact, the Partnership for Capability Transformation scheme, where SMEs collaborate with larger companies to develop new capabilities.

Further, at this Budget, we announced the SMEs Go Digital Programme, which will help SMEs digitalise their products, services and processes. Overall, we have set aside $1.5 billion of grant support for such capability development in SMEs.

HELPING SMES DEVELOP THEIR WORKERS' SKILLS

Finally, skills. We are making a significant investment in developing the skills of our people through SkillsFuture. To help SMEs tap on SkillsFuture, we have put in place initiatives such as the SME Talent Programme, the SkillsFuture Mentors Scheme and the SkillsFuture Earn and Learn programme.

In each of these areas, there are continual efforts to make Government support more accessible to SMEs, through initiatives such as the Business Grants Portal, the SME Digital Technology Hub, as well as the new IP Master Agreement. SMEs can approach the SME centres or go to our SME portal or economic agencies to find out more. There is no wrong door, and they will help you navigate. They key is we have this plethora of support.

Fundamentally, we are in a more uncertain environment. Therefore the emphasis is on a broad range of measures and schemes that are the key platforms to raise the industries as a whole. Companies that are prepared to go further and faster will receive more support. But that does not mean that we are picking winners. The winners are picking themselves and adapting to our schemes.

The impact of such programmes is amplified when the trade associations and chambers come on board to take the lead and get firms in their sector to act together. One good example is the logistics industry - where associations such as the Container Depot Association (Singapore) (CDAS) and the Singapore Logistics Association (SLA) play important roles.

The logistics industry is a traditional strength of ours, and is poised to tap on Asia's rising middle class and the growth of e-commerce. It will harness emerging technologies such as data analytics to improve service delivery. For example, CDAS has launched the electronic container trucking system (with help from Spring) to streamline container logistics operations and improve container supply chain visibility. To go international, SLA has worked with IE to help its members better understand growing markets, including a study mission to understand the investment and business opportunities arising from China's One Belt, One Road initiative.

To help train workers for the new jobs being created, the SLA also plays an active role in attracting and training talent for the industry through its training arm, The Logistics Academy.

As evident, there is no lack of Government resolve or resources available to help our companies, especially SMEs, successfully transform. But we are aware that there is significant variation across sectors and some are facing significant headwinds. For example, the electronics sector grew by more than 15 per cent in 2016, while the transport and storage sector grew by 2.3 per cent. On the other hand, the marine and offshore engineering segment has contracted for nine successive quarters.

These variations exist because sectors face different cyclical and structural conditions. For example, lower oil prices have severely affected demand in the marine and offshore industry.

The retail industry is coping with disruptive technological changes such as e-commerce which threatens to disintermediate some retailers, while creating new opportunities for others. These disruptive forces are playing out in other sectors too. At the start of this decade, Uber and Grab did not exist. Rapid developments in fintech and artificial intelligence (AI) are also disrupting the financial services, manufacturing and other services industries.

HELPING SMES OVERCOME SHORT-TERM DIFFICULTIES

The Government recognises these immediate challenges that our SMEs are facing. We will continue to provide short-term relief where necessary through the system of broad-based support we have built up over the years.

- To help with wage costs, we had introduced the Wage Credit Scheme and the Special Employment Credit (SEC) scheme. We also extended the additional SEC at this Budget until end-2019. Together, these amount to about $1 billion in cash pay-outs to businesses in March 2017.

- To help SMEs with liquidity, we had introduced the SME Working Capital Loan in 2016, which has catalysed more than $700 million dollars in loans to about 4,300 SMEs. We have also extended the corporate tax rebate and raised the rebate cap to $25,000, at 50 per cent of tax payable for year of assessment 2017.

We also closely monitor rental and other business costs. In 2016, industrial, retail and office rentals all fell. We will continue to maintain a steady pipeline of industrial land and space to ensure that there is competitive pressure in the market and rents remain affordable.

We have not introduced further broad-based measures, but we have put in place customised support for specific industries due to their varied circumstances. For example,

- For the marine and offshore engineering sector, we introduced the M&OE Engineering Bridging Loan and the M&OE Internationalisation Finance Scheme in November last year. Not a panacea, but some consolidation is inevitable. The the aim is to preserve the core capabilities that we have built up over the years by helping some M&OE companies to meet short-term cash flow needs, and secure new loans to continue to take up projects. We expect these two schemes to catalyse approximately $1.6 billion in loans over one year.

- For the marine and process sectors, we have deferred levy hikes for work permit holders.

- To support the construction sector, which has been weighed down by the property market slowdown and economic uncertainties, we are bringing forward $700 million of public sector infrastructure projects to start in FY17 and FY18.

These measures are an illustration of a more targeted response and support for SMEs and other businesses from Government, complementing the broad-based measures we already have in place, in response to the varied needs in the economy.

In summary, the opportunities before us are significant. To seize them, we must invest in the capabilities of our economy, people and enterprises, especially our SMEs. The most durable solution lies in moving up the value curve, innovating, offering products and services that others are not offering, and adopting management methods and techniques that will close the big gaps in productivity in some sectors compared to international best practices. The Government is resolute in our support, through broad-based and targeted programmes, to help our SMEs make this transformation successfully. We do not pick winners, but will support companies that are prepared to make these important transitions. And in all of these efforts, SMEs are our central focus.

Ultimately, creating vibrant, competitive industries with strong capabilities is the surest way to ensure the success of all our businesses, including the SMEs. The Government looks forward to working closely with trade associations and chambers, and unions to ensure a diverse enterprise eco-system, a thriving SME community and a strong economy rich with opportunities.

School’s all drill? That won’t explain how Singapore topped PISA

March 4, 2017, 8:14 am

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The Republic is at an inflexion point where content mastery is making way for more deep learning. But there's still value in drilling - deliberate practice - as we move towards future-oriented learning.
By David Hung, Published The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Singapore's first Olympic gold medallist Joseph Schooling is known to wake up as early as 5am to begin his daily practice routines.

It is not uncommon to hear of the national swimmer training for five to six hours daily in the pool and the gym. Like top sportsmen, expert musicians, chess players, scientists and mathematicians all practise their skills regularly - and often repetitively - to be able to perform at optimal levels when needed.

If one observes Schooling practising, lap after lap, over and over again, it would appear to be less than enjoyable and clearly tonnes of hard work. If one were to remove a portion of his hours of repetitive practice in the pool and gym, however, would we still have our very first Olympic champion in our midst?

There have been recent commentaries in the news media wondering if our school pedagogies are overly focused on drilling or repetitive practice to succeed in exams, which, in turn, could lead to an overdependence on private tuition.

As parents watch their children undergo what appear to be mind-numbing experiences of problem after problem, exercise after exercise, workbook after workbook, it is understandable for them to be concerned about whether these perceived repetitive academic exercises are hindering our students from more holistic and future-oriented learning.

From the perspective of education researchers who work closely with school teachers in enhancing pedagogical practice, there is much to ponder over two key questions - first, is some drilling really that bad and, second, is our school system today really still too focused on drilling for results?

WE ARE STILL TEACHING AND LEARNING THE SAME WAY… OR ARE WE?

In the early years of post-independence Singapore, teacher-fronted direct instruction helped equip students with strong foundations in literacy and numeracy, and national testing allowed the school system to monitor student achievement and provide them with a curriculum that suited their pace.

Having gone through several major shifts in five short decades, our education policies are now firmly focused on a student-centric and values-driven model. Curricula and pedagogies are shifting from foundational knowledge and content mastery to deep learning and acquisition of 21st-century competencies, as well as from teacher-fronted teaching to student-centred learning.

However, systemic shifts in education will necessarily take time to be fully implemented. Our system is at an inflexion point, where traditional education, with its focus on knowledge acquisition, and new forms of education, focusing on future-readiness, are both present. On the ground, teachers are attempting to strike a fine balance between old and new pedagogies in varying degrees and contexts.

Yet, we are already seeing early results of the most recent shifts in educational direction and pedagogical practice.

A recent research study compared the primary science curriculum across Hong Kong, Japan, China, Taiwan, South Korea and Singapore.

National Institute of Education (NIE) Singapore researcher Lee Yew Jin and researchers from Japan, South Korea and Canada examined the learning objectives of the primary science curriculum in these six places for the cognitive demands in the classroom - "To Remember", "To Understand", "To Apply", "To Analyse", "To Evaluate" and "To Create".

They found that contrary to popular beliefs about drill and practice in Singapore, "To Remember" accounted for only 31.4 per cent of learning objectives.

The Singapore science curriculum showed a healthy balance of "To Understand" (32.5 per cent) and "To Apply" (31.4 per cent) - aspects that cannot be achieved through pure rote learning or drilling.

In another NIE study, researchers observed Primary 5 pupils making winged seeds from paper and throwing these from their school corridor to the ground, to observe and understand seed dispersion, thereby learning about plant reproduction through a fun-filled activity. While those pupils may have taken home worksheets to do, their parents were not privy to how their children were enjoying the process of learning science through inquiry in school.

Evidence from the Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2015 study confirmed our observations - more than eight in 10 15-year-old students in Singapore said they "had fun" when learning science topics and enjoyed acquiring new knowledge in science.

The Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (Timss) 2015 results also showed that Singapore's Primary 4 pupils and Secondary 2 students made steady improvements in mathematics and science over time, especially in higher-order thinking skills.

Our Primary 4 pupils and Sec 2 students were better able to apply knowledge and skills as well as solve non-routine mathematics and science problems in Timss 2015 compared with the Timss 2007 cohort, evidencing the impact of our deliberate curricular shifts towards a greater emphasis on higher-order thinking skills in recent years.

Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development director for education and skills Andreas Schleicher made the following observation following the release of the results for PISA 2012: "Singapore's education system has at times been criticised for encouraging rote learning at the expense of creative skills development. Those critics should have a second look. The PISA results show that 15-year-old Singaporeans are quick learners, highly inquisitive and able to solve unstructured problems in unfamiliar contexts. Indeed, no education system outperforms Singapore on this problem-solving test."

PRACTICE DOES NOT MAKE PERFECT… OR DOES IT?

Now, back to Schooling and the hours of hard work and practice that laid the foundations for his success on sport's biggest stage - is some "drilling" necessarily a bad thing?

In the early 1990s, Professor K. Anders Ericsson of Florida State University examined musicians to understand how they became experts. His research revealed that gifted performers become so after a minimum of 10 years - or 10,000 hours - of intense practice before they go on to win international competitions.

Crucially, it is not the amount of practice but the type of practice that makes a difference. People become experts through deliberate practice - intentional, specific, structured, considerable and sustained efforts to do something they did not initially do well in.

Deliberate practice requires the learner to consciously reflect on and understand his own weaknesses and to then think of solutions to improve or eliminate the weaknesses. It involves cultivating, developing, enhancing and refining needed skills and extending the reach and range of those skills.

What does a competitive swimmer doing laps in a pool and a performing musician practising on his instrument have to do with a primary school pupil solving word problems?

If you do a close examination of students practising on subjects like mathematics, similarities to how experts improve through practice will begin to emerge. Like the experts who attain skill mastery over time, it is not the repeated nature of practice, but the conscious and deliberate planning to develop competency and expertise that makes a difference.

Not all practices are the same, and not all practices make one perfect, but deliberate practice - both physically and mentally - can lead to mastery and excellence in application, and help one perform effectively in even the most challenging real-life situations. Furthermore, the cultivation of resilience and perseverance - important values for future-readiness - is much often overlooked in arguments against repetitive practice.

Is the Singapore student then engaged in deliberate practice? The Core Research Programme team at the NIE Centre for Research in Pedagogy and Practice analysed hundreds of samples of student worksheets and examined Ministry of Education-endorsed mathematics textbooks and other teaching materials.

They concluded that mathematics teachers constructively work with students in classrooms on problem-solving activities. In analysing the relationships between problems, the research team found evidence of a deliberate structure in how problems are laid out in lessons and in textbooks.

Typically, students are exposed to problems that may be repetitive in nature initially but move on to problems that are more varied in terms of the procedures required to solve them, and then progress to more conceptually complex problems that require them to apply what they have learnt in novel ways.

Therefore, what appears to be a worksheet of about 20 problems in sequence becomes, in actuality, a form of deliberate practice for students to acquire not just procedural fluency but also deep conceptual understanding.

As teachers work through the word problems in class, they provide feedback so that students know where they are in their learning journey, what their weaknesses are, and how they can improve.

In our mathematics classrooms, students experience a pedagogy focusing on problem variations that engage them in deliberate practice to improve their understanding and skills.

While not all students are expected to become expert mathematicians, an important function of schooling is to equip students with fundamental competencies and important mathematical skills - something that our Singapore curriculum and pedagogy have been recognised to do very well.

The PISA international study also showed that our students are capable of demonstrating application, inference and reasoning skills; of exhibiting conceptual understanding; and of solving problems in unfamiliar real-life situations.

Our students' strong performance in PISA cannot be simply attributed to a "drilling culture". The nature of the test items is such that students need to demonstrate application and reasoning skills, draw inferences, and explain rationales, and so on - they are not mere recall items.

With the new shift towards student-centric and values-driven curricula and pedagogies, the Singapore student is embedded in a pedagogical interplay between content mastery and 21st-century competencies.

The aim is to inculcate in them strong educational fundamentals as well as knowledge, skills and dispositions for the future.

ONLY GOLD MATTERS… OR DOES IT?

Education is seen by many in our society to be important and crucial for one's social mobility. Parents want the best for their children, mustering whatever means and resources available to ensure that.

They want their children to get into certain schools that they believe can lead their child to a successful and secure future. Yet, an over-emphasis on examination results by all stakeholders in the system - parents, students and teachers - can unbalance the system and tilt it towards pedagogies that are overly focused on a limited range of academic outcomes.

Undoubtedly, striving for gold is a worthy goal, but the reward of learning and growing has as much to do with the journey as the outcome.

Recognising that content mastery, deep learning and 21st-century competencies are all necessary for a successful and future-oriented society, NIE research has focused on developing pedagogical and curriculum innovations to create more space in schools for students' lifelong learning and to impart in students a joy of learning.

Everyone in the system - parents, students, teachers and policymakers - has a role to play in ensuring that schools continue to provide a balanced, quality education that prepares our children to be adaptable and resilient.

Collectively, we should strive to encourage an education system that allows for fun and hard work, practice and inquiry, abstract ideas and real-world application, and passion and mastery. Only then can we safely secure the future for our children.

The writer is a professor at the National Institute of Education (NIE), Singapore, and associate dean of NIE's Office of Education Research.

Imam being probed over comments on Christians and Jews

March 5, 2017, 5:53 am

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Government will not tolerate religious preaching that encourages violence: Shanmugam
Police looking into conduct of all involved in imam case
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

The police are looking into the conduct of everyone involved in the case of an imam who allegedly made insensitive comments about Christians and Jews, said Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam.

He told Parliament yesterday that the Government will not tolerate any religious preaching that encourages violence or seeks to pit one religion against another.

Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) and Ms Rahayu Mahzam (Jurong GRC) had sought an update on the case.

A video of an imam reciting a prayer in Arabic at Jamae Mosque in South Bridge Road was uploaded on Facebook last week.

The imam was reported to have quoted a verse from the Quran, said Mr Shanmugam, and he seemed to have said "God grant us victory over Jews and Christians", among other things.

A police report has been lodged.



Investigations are ongoing, Mr Shanmugam said during the debate on the Home Affairs Ministry's budget, adding: "We will know the context of what he said, once the investigations have finished."

Mr Shanmugam made clear the Government's position on the issue.

If the imam had referred to the phrase to say, for instance, that such phrases can promote ill will against other communities, and that this is not acceptable in a multi-religious society, then there can be no objection.

But, said Mr Shanmugam, "if he had said that Jews and Christians should be defeated, and for God to grant Muslim brothers victory over them, to make that very point, then that is completely unacceptable".

"And if any member disagrees, I welcome him or her to stand up and clarify," he told the House.

"The Government has taken a strict position when Muslims have been attacked. People have been charged, sent to jail," he said, citing the example of a Christian couple sentenced to eight weeks in jail in 2009 for distributing publications that cast Islam in a negative light.

The same applies to any attack on any other religion, Mr Shanmugam noted, saying: "We will not tolerate any religious preaching that encourages violence or seeks to pit one religion against another."

If the imam is found not to have made any inflammatory suggestion, no action will be taken, and a public statement will be issued.

But if he had indeed made such suggestions or engaged in such preaching, appropriate action will be taken, said Mr Shanmugam.

"We have to be fair to the imam," he said, adding: "The Government's position has to be made clear because matters like this have the potential to escalate, with people jumping in, opinions being formed and hardened along religious lines."

He also called out National University of Singapore academic Khairudin Aljunied for criticising the person who made public what the imam said.

Dr Khairudin, a tenured associate professor in the university's Department of Malay Studies, had posted his comments on Facebook.

"Mr Khairudin has encouraged vilification of that individual. Looking at what he has said, he seems to suggest that it is okay for the imam to say that Jews and Christians should be defeated," said Mr Shanmugam.

"He assumes that the imam intended to mean that, and Mr Khairudin sees nothing wrong with that, even if the imam had intended the meaning of his words.

"Mr Khairudin's positions and actions are quite unacceptable. He has jumped into this, without verifying the facts and without checking the context. He supports a position that is quite contrary to the norms, values and laws in Singapore."

The police will look thoroughly into the issues and the conduct of all involved, Mr Shanmugam said, adding: "When such issues arise, it is best that parties refer (them) to the police. Going public may inflame the views further."

The video of the imam was posted online by investment associate Terence Nunis. He said that it had been taken in early January and sent to him by a friend who had heard the sermon at Jamae Mosque.

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) earlier this week told the media that it is assisting the police with their investigations.

As part of due process, the imam has been placed on leave while investigations are ongoing, it said.

Mr de Souza yesterday commended MUIS on its "courageous and generous position".

"What we have attained, what we have enjoyed, we need to maintain, nurture and strengthen," he said.

MUIS said in a statement in response to media queries last night: "MUIS appreciates and fully supports the Government's firm and consistent position in the matter.

"MUIS shares the view that there can be no room for discourse that promotes intolerance, enmity or violence against other communities."

Police will consult wide variety of people in probe
The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Two MPs yesterday sought clarifications from Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam after he spoke on the case of the imam accused of making insensitive remarks against Jews and Christians.

Mr Zainal Sapari (Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC): I would like to ask whether the police in their investigation would be consulting the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) to establish whether it was really out of context or indeed was inflammatory?

Mr Shanmugam: The police will interact with, speak with a wide variety of people in coming to their conclusion. Ultimately, the police will be guided by advice from the Attorney-General's Chambers, taking into account the facts, the videos which are available, a proper translation of what was said. Everything will be looked into.

Mr Faisal Manap (Aljunied GRC): I just want to get a confirmation, as well as affirmation, from the minister on whether MUIS and the Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association will be consulted, because I believe that they will be able to provide a more accurate interpretation of the imam's text, since he seems to be quoting from the verse from the Quran.





Mr Shanmugam: Can I ask the member whether he thinks that it is all right to quote from a text and encourage violence against others? Can I have a direct answer, please?

Mr Faisal: Madam (Speaker), from my own knowledge, the verses in the Quran are always in the context of giving out mercy to the people and the universe.

Mr Shanmugam: That is not the question I asked, and I didn't refer to the Quran. Do you think it is all right for someone to refer to any holy text to encourage violence either by quoting directly or speaking, encouraging such violence? Yes or no?

Mr Faisal: It is wrong, Madam.

Mr Shanmugam: Thank you. That is a question the police will be considering. Thank you.

No room for religious extremism in Singapore, say Muslim leaders
Shanmugam welcomes their commitment to harmony, says Govt does not take sides
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Sunday Times, 5 Mar 2017

Muslim leaders yesterday made clear their stand against religious extremism and called for calm amid the ongoing controversy over an imam's reportedly offensive remarks.

Singapore's top Muslim leader, Mufti Fatris Bakaram, said in a Facebook post that while the community holds fast to its faith, it has to ensure its religious texts are read appropriately and not misunderstood, as this would smear the good name of Islam and Muslims here.

His comments came a day after the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (MUIS) said there can be no room for discourse that promotes intolerance, enmity or violence against other communities.



Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam yesterday welcomed these statements, saying in comments to Malay daily Berita Harian that they "show clearly that the Muslim community strongly values our commitment to religious harmony in Singapore".

"This shows the spirit of multiracial, multi-religious harmony in Singapore. It is a very heart-warming move, and the majority of Singaporeans will both be reassured, and also welcome these statements."

Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim also called for calm and unity in a Facebook post, saying: "There is no space in Singapore for extremism or exclusivism because we uphold values of mutual respect and harmony. We utterly reject any speech or actions that foster ill will between communities. This is the Singapore way."



Their comments came a day after Mr Shanmugam told Parliament that police are looking into the conduct of everyone involved in the case.

Last month, investment associate Terence Nunis posted a video online of an imam at Jamae Mosque who, after a sermon, reportedly recited a prayer in Arabic that said "God grant us victory over Jews and Christians", among other things.

The video gained traction online and offline and, as part of due process, the imam has been placed on leave while investigations, which MUIS is assisting in, are ongoing.

It has also sparked a storm in the community, and Dr Yaacob noted: "Many in our community felt angry, because they believe that the postings could be used to cast aspersions on Islam and the asatizah (religious teachers) in our mosques."

Some also felt the imam's recitation had been taken out of context.

Mr Shanmugam said police will investigate the case thoroughly and interview all parties involved, including those who filmed and publicised the video.

"Whether there is a case for further action against any of the parties, will depend on the outcome of investigations," he added.

"The Government does not take sides in this issue - if anyone is found to have committed an offence, action will be taken."

Dr Yaacob agreed, saying in his post that it is important to step back and reflect on the incident.

There will not be any double standards in dealing with race and religious harmony issues, he said.

"If one of us, a preacher or otherwise, has crossed the line, he or she must be taken to task," he noted. "This has been done in other cases involving other religious groups which have crossed the line."

Both he and Mr Shanmugam also stressed that while it was right to blow the whistle on wrongdoing, some sensitive matters may be better reported directly to the authorities rather than aired online.

Said Dr Yaacob, who is also Communications and Information Minister: "One must also ask whether the manner in which this is done is appropriate, or if it sows more discord and causes tension in our society."

Mr Shanmugam said he had been asked if it was all right for the video of the imam's preaching to have been uploaded on social media.

"Today, many take it as a norm to post - the more sensational, the more it's likely to multiply its reach.

"The right thing to do, though, is that when a matter like this is encountered, it should be reported to the police, and not put out on social media. That will allow police to focus their investigations on the subject of the complaint," he added.

"If the matter is publicly posted, it could lead to a groundswell of feelings, in this case, both from Muslims as well as non-Muslims.

"It could cause confusion about religion, and increase tensions and so on. We don't want that in Singapore," he said.

The Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association (Pergas) said its members would endeavour to spread the correct teachings on Islam, as it has been doing with groups like the Religious Rehabilitation Group and mosques.

"We have to support the shared peace and prosperity we enjoy," said Pergas chair Hasbi Hassan.

Dr Yaacob noted that Dr Fatris took his Facebook account offline for one day to "cool things down" because he saw emotions being whipped up.

The minister shared Dr Fatris' latest post yesterday, where the Mufti said he did not agree with the approach taken by some to sensationalise the video on social media.

"Whatever our views, it is not appropriate to act or comment in a way that hurts feelings or creates public unease," Dr Fatris said, adding that no one should give the wrong impression of Islam or the community, which has done much to help build social and religious harmony.



Mr Shanmugam, in his remarks, also had strong words for those who have attacked MUIS and the Mufti over this case and in the past.

He noted that they play a critical role in keeping religious harmony and harmonious inter-faith relations. "Regrettably, some people have been attacking them. The Mufti himself has been attacked, in rude and unacceptable language.

"Just because these people may not agree with the Mufti, or the Islamic authorities, does not mean they should use rude and abusive language against them. I find that very saddening - kurang ajar," he said, using the Malay term for lack of good upbringing.

"We are keeping a close watch on people who do these things. If the conduct crosses over and becomes criminal, action will be taken."

Imam being probed over comments on Christians and Jews
By Yuen Sin, The Straits Times, 2 Mar 2017

The authorities are investigating a case involving an imam who allegedly made insensitive comments about Christians and Jews.

Investment associate Terence Nunis, 40, posted a video on a Facebook page last Friday of what appeared to be an imam saying a prayer after a sermon at Jamae Mosque in South Bridge Road.

The video, which Mr Nunis said was taken in early January and sent to him by a friend who had attended the sermon, showed the imam - who is believed to be from South India - using the Arabic word "fanswurna" when he spoke about Christians and Jews.

Mr Nunis, who is a Muslim, said the use of the word "fanswurna" - which means "to overcome" or "to grant victory over" - in relation to other religions is problematic.

"In this case, the flavour is far from benign and the implicit meaning is more than just being better than them... but to dominate them," Mr Nunis told The Straits Times.

He also said in his Facebook post that the imam had made similar comments last Friday.

The police confirmed that a report had been lodged over the imam's remarks.

The Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) said it is aware of the case.

It is assisting the police with their investigations.

"As part of due process, the individual has been placed on leave while investigations are ongoing," added a spokesman.

The spokesman also said that MUIS takes "a very serious view of any behaviour or speech which promotes feelings of enmity, hatred or ill will between different faith communities".

Strategic approach to water-planning crucial: DPM Teo

March 6, 2017, 7:31 pm

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It will ensure water remains available and affordable to every family in Singapore
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Sunday Times, 5 Mar 2017

Holding up a 330ml bottle of water which costs under $1 from a store, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said the same amount of money will pay for 1,000 bottles of tap water, even after the recently announced price hike.

That water is readily available here and at a price affordable to every family is testament to the planning and investments Singapore has made over the years.

The cost of water here is comparable to that in major cities in developed countries with large rivers and lakes to draw from, said Mr Teo, who explained the need for current and future generations to learn the value of water and understand how it is critical to Singapore's survival and independence.

Water from Malaysia now meets half the island's water needs. But Mr Teo noted how Johor's Linggiu Reservoir, which feeds into the Johor River from which Singapore draws its supply, is only a third full.

"This water source is under stress," he said. "So we must prepare, psychologically, to face water shortages if the Linggiu Reservoir dries up, and our reservoirs here also face a very dry year."

The price of water will rise by 30 per cent in two phases, from July 1, and the hike has drawn concern from residents and businesses.

Last week, three ministers explained in Parliament how water is a matter of national security, and has to be priced right to reflect its strategic importance and scarcity.

Yesterday, at the launch of Singapore's month-long celebration of World Water Day at Marina Barrage, Mr Teo put it more starkly.

"Our struggle to make sure our people have water, is the struggle for Singapore's survival and independence," he said. "To make sure that we could survive, preserve our independence and thrive, we have taken a strategic approach to planning for water supply."

This entailed planning early for future sources, and Singapore prepared well before its first water agreement with Malaysia expired in 2011. It included expanding catchment areas and building reservoirs where other cities would not have thought possible, including "this Marina Reservoir right in the middle of our city", he said, referring to the Barrage.

This was "so that we would not be held to ransom", he stressed. He pointed out that 2011 "passed almost unnoticed in Singapore" with no disruption in water supply, and no big price shocks.

Likewise, Singapore must make investments for 2061, when the second water agreement ends, added Mr Teo, who is also Coordinating Minister for National Security. "For the 16 years from 2000 to 2015, we invested $7 billion in water infrastructure, or about $430 million every year. This will almost double to $800 million every year from 2017 to 2021... This will fund major investments in desalination and Newater plants, new and renewal of water pipes and pumps so that the fresh clean water flows into every home when we turn on our taps."

At the same time, middle- and lower-income households will continue to get help to offset the price hike, he added. For instance, a family in a four-room HDB flat will get $300 in U-Save rebates this year.

Describing the water story as the story of Singapore, one written and passed down by the pioneer generation, he said: "Water is precious. Water is survival. Water is life. Water is freedom and independence. Make every drop count."

Many Singaporeans unaware of monthly water usage: Poll
By Annika Mock and Raynold Toh YK, The Sunday Times, 5 Mar 2017

Many Singaporeans are unaware of their monthly water usage even as they think that the recently announced water price hike is unnecessary - a reaction that shows they do not appreciate the cost of water, said water management experts.

In a street poll conducted last Thursday by The Sunday Times, 75 of 100 respondents said they did not know how much they spent on water each month.

When informed of this figure, water resource development expert Asit K. Biswas, distinguished visiting professor at the National University of Singapore's Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, told The Sunday Times he was "surprised that a quarter of them even knew".

He thinks that this has not come about because of a lack of transparency or information, but because of a bigger problem.

"Singaporeans have been taking water for granted just because nothing has happened in the last few years," he said.



The poll - conducted at six train stations in the north, west, south and central areas of Singapore - had questions ranging from whether respondents knew how much the 30 per cent price increase would cost them monthly, to how they were conserving water.

The questions were posed as many Singaporeans are debating the 30 per cent increase in water tariffs - the first in 17 years - which was announced in Budget 2017 last month.

Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli and Minister in the Prime Minister's Office Chan Chun Sing both spoke in Parliament last Wednesday to address the concerns of ministers and the public.

However, The Sunday Times poll revealed divided views on the increase, as half of the respondents felt the hike was unnecessary.

Mr Ong Chin Choon, 56, who is unemployed, said: "I don't think there is a need to do it now because of the poor economic situation.

"There have also been recent increases in other fees, such as the HDB service and conservancy charges as well as public carpark fees. It is too much at one go."

However, experts believe the price hike was long overdue and would do Singaporeans good.

Professor Biswas said the results reveal complacency among Singaporeans and felt that the increase was too small.

"We need to realise that Singapore's water supply is not reliable," he said, adding that he would double the price of water by 2019 if it were up to him.

He said the 30 per cent hike was the best way to drive across the message that water is precious.

Professor Ng Yew Kwang, Winsemius professor of economics at the Nanyang Technological University, said "the 30 per cent price increase is highly desirable", given that water has always been underpriced.

However, Prof Ng did think that the increase was too sudden.

"The Government should have increased the price several times over the past 17 years. Now, it is too late to do this," he added.

Besides the timing of the hike, 72 per cent of respondents added that they were at a loss as to how to further reduce their consumption.

Retiree Chee Saw Siew, 55, whose water bill was $12.75 for last month - well below the national average of $29.45 for households living in executive apartments, said: "There is a limit to how much water can be saved."

However, Prof Biswas said there was "plenty of room to conserve water" if Singaporeans "saved smart". He suggested reducing the usage of appliances that consume the most water or are the least water-efficient, such as washing machines.

Related
Water Price Revisions 2017

Water prices to increase by 30% from 1 July 2017 in two phases
See water price hike in perspective, says PM Lee

Budget 2017 Committee of Supply Debate: MINDEF, MHA, MFA, MTI, MinLaw, PMO

March 7, 2017, 4:07 am

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Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Defence

Singapore strengthens cyber defence with new organisation
It will also bolster round-the-clock protection of networks, build force of cyber defenders
By Adrian Lim, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Singapore is setting up a new Defence Cyber Organisation (DCO) to bolster its defences against the growing threat of online attacks, as it moves to boost the round-the-clock protection of its military networks.

It will also build a force of cyber defenders - tapping national servicemen, both full-time and operationally ready men - who will lead the charge in this new battlefront.

These moves are vital in the light of the Defence Ministry's (MINDEF) disclosure earlier this week that the personal details of 850 NSmen and staff were stolen, a theft uncovered last month.



"We can expect more of such cyber attacks in the future,"Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen said yesterday when announcing the DCO in Parliament during the debate on MINDEF's budget.

Dealing with such security threats, including fake news, is increasingly important for the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF), which as a fighting force is relying more often on computer technology.

Cyber warfare is a growing phenomenon. Dr Ng cited Ukraine's power grid being hit by cyber attacks and, in the US presidential election, the computers of the Democratic National Committee were hacked by unknown sources to discredit its candidate Hillary Clinton.

Fake news inflamed ethnic and political tensions in Indonesia, prompting it to form an agency to counter cyber crime and fake news.

"Modern militaries can no longer choose to ignore these external threats through the digital front,'' said Dr Ng.

Explaining the make-up of the DCO, he said it is "at the highest level of our organisational hierarchy".

It will have four formations, each with different roles, including overseeing the cyber security of all defence agencies and building up cyber defence capabilities.

The DCO will be led by a deputy secretary and the formations by a colonel or a flag officer, who is either a general or an admiral.

It fortifies the military's past efforts at securing its cyber defence. These include the 2013 Cyber Defence Operations Hub, which gathers its cyber-security experts under one command.

The round-the-clock monitoring of the military networks will be carried out by two units of the Cyber Defence Group (CDG) formation.

They are the Security Monitoring Unit and Incident Response and Audit Unit, whose teams will identify and neutralise cyber threats.

Under the units' watch, the security of SAF's networks will also be audited for resilience.



The CDG also has the Cyber Defence Test and Evaluation Centre, which has been operational since 2015 but was unveiled yesterday.

The ministry plans to have about 2,600 cyber defenders in 10 years - a big jump from the current numbers that "reflects the importance of this new battlefront", said Dr Ng.

SAF will also partner Singapore Technologies Electronics (Info-Security) and Nanyang Polytechnic to provide, among others, industrial attachments and joint development of cyber defence curriculum.

Two new defence technology labs are to be set up, to develop robotics, and exploit artificial intelligence and data analytics.

In addition, a new $900 million training ground covering 88ha will be built to give SAF soldiers a realistic combat experience.

Dr Ng said: "Even as we set up a new cyber command and technology labs... we must never neglect to train the SAF as a conventional force against traditional threats... and terrorism."

$900m urban training area in the west to hone soldiers' skills
SAFTI City, a state-of-the-art training facility as big as Bishan, will take some 10 years to build
By Chong Zi Liang, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

A new training area the size of Bishan town will be built in western Singapore to let soldiers hone their urban and coastal defence fighting skills in realistic settings.

One sector of the 88ha area - dubbed SAFTI City - will be packed with shophouse clusters, high-rise interconnected buildings, low-rise residences, basement carparks, a bus interchange and even an MRT station with multiple exits.

To train island defence capabilities, another sector located near the Poyan Reservoir will house a petrochemical complex, warehouses, container parks and industrial buildings. New grounds for infantry and armoured vehicle drills will be developed in the three existing training areas of Pasir Laba, Ama Keng and the Murai Urban Training Facility.

A variety of training scenarios - called Instrumented Battle Circuits - can be simulated in these areas.

Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen announced the SAFTI City in Parliament yesterday, adding that it would cost about $900 million and take about a decade to build.

He said that while Singapore is building new training facilities overseas due to finite land at home, it also sees the need to build world- class training facilities here.

"We must guard against over-dependence on overseas training grounds. It is not possible for all our NSmen to train only overseas as the bulk of our training is still conducted locally, especially for our army," said Dr Ng.

The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) said later in a statement that SAFTI City is part of a revamp of existing training areas in western Singapore to make better use of the land available for military purposes.

With more than 200 buildings of varying heights and types, and extensive road networks, SAFTI City will allow troops to train in different types of operations, from homeland security and counter-terrorism to disaster relief, MINDEF added.

SAFTI City, which takes it name from the nearby SAFTI Military Institute, will also be outfitted with instruments and video cameras that will instantly track the actions of units and individual soldiers.

This data can then be analysed and used to help troops learn from past exercises.

In his speech, Dr Ng said the key feature of SAFTI City will be the state-of-the-art training simulation built into its facilities to replicate different environments that soldiers operate in.

For instance, interactive targets and battlefield effects such as artillery attacks will allow soldiers to train more realistically, he said.

"SAFTI City will take our NS training to a much higher level of realism and effectiveness," he added.

Robots could fight alongside soldiers in next-generation SAF
By Adrian Lim, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Singapore's soldiers could see robots fighting alongside them in the future, in the form of unmanned ground vehicles armed with machine guns.

In the skies, micro unmanned aerial drones may provide troops with greater situational awareness.

These are the scenarios for the next generation of the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) which were revealed by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) yesterday during the debate on its budget.

To design, build and test these robots, Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen announced that a robotics laboratory will be set up next month in the DSO National Laboratories.

Dr Ng said that currently, soldiers with the 6th Singapore Infantry Regiment are experimenting with unmanned aerial and ground vehicles to perform missions.



The next-generation SAF will also tap data analytics to enhance counter-terrorism operations, said MINDEF. To build capabilities in these areas, the Defence Science and Technology Agency will set up an analytics and artificial intelligence laboratory.

Dr Ng noted how the Singapore Maritime Crisis Centre, which monitors over 1,500 commercial shipping vessels daily, used artificial intelligence to detect a possible supporter of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria who was on board a tanker in 2015.

"That person was barred from disembarking into Singapore. Finding this needle in a big haystack is possible only through modern means," said Dr Ng, who also announced an inaugural Singapore Defence Technology Summit to be held early next year, likely on a biennial basis.

For funding, both technology labs will be given a total grant of $45 million annually for a start, he said.

Dr Ng said MINDEF has projected that the defence budget can be maintained on the current trajectory of 3 per cent to 4 per cent annually, even with new demands to renew its assets. These include the replacement of two submarines and the upgrading of F-16 aircraft with new weapons and radars.

Where possible, costs will be cut, Dr Ng said. The army, for example, has a new "Smart" magazine, which can simulate the firing of blank rounds, and will save the force $1.4 million a year, he said.

"But MINDEF will not hesitate to push for higher spending if there are increasing new demands or if the security environment deteriorates," he added.

WSQ accreditation for skills learnt during national service
The 23 accredited SAF courses, including Basic Military Training, will give NSmen a boost in their future careers
By Chong Zi Liang, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

A total of 23 courses conducted by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) are now accredited under the Workforce Skills Qualification (WSQ) scheme, a move aimed at giving national servicemen a leg-up in their future careers.

These courses include the Basic Military Training (BMT) for most recruits except for commando or naval diver trainees, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) said yesterday.

In all, more than 96 per cent of full-time national servicemen (NSFs) who enlist from this January will receive the WSQ annually.

The move to accredit SAF courses under the WSQ is to recognise that servicemen attain leadership, technical and specialist skills that meet professional standards accepted by industries, Second Defence Minister Ong Ye Kung said yesterday in Parliament.

"In fact, the teamwork we learn in NS is very much better than most commercial courses on teamwork," he added.

The WSQ is a national training framework that trains and certifies individuals in skills that are valued by employers. Under the framework, workers gain qualifications ranging from certificates to advanced diplomas. Those who do not get a full qualification will get a statement of attainment (SOA) for each module they complete.

For instance, an NSF with a Physical Employment Status of A or B will get two SOAs under the Employability Skills WSQ framework after completing BMT.

Commanders will receive additional accreditation for their leadership skills. So, a naval officer will get a level three advanced certificate - level six is the highest WSQ qualification - under the Leadership and People Management WSQ framework after completing the Officer Cadet School course.

MINDEF and SAF have been working with SkillsFuture Singapore to expand accreditation across the armed forces, said Mr Ong, who is also Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills). Skills accreditation is one of several ways to improve the national service experience and deploy servicemen more effectively, he said, as Singapore marks the 50th anniversary of NS this year.

He also listed how the military would make its soldiers fitter and provide safer training, as he described servicemen as "our most precious resource in the SAF".

He announced a new Centre for Excellence for Soldier Performance that will be up by the end of the year.

It will focus on developing fitness regimes, soldier nutrition studies, injury prevention programmes, and rehabilitation regimes to help injured national servicemen recover. It will also look into enhancing the mental strength of soldiers.

The SAF is also looking at how to better deploy its manpower as technology advances, said Mr Ong.

He noted that combat engineers in the past had to lift and hold heavy loads to assemble a bridge, but their counterparts today can do so with the push of a few buttons, thanks to new hardware that makes use of a hydraulic arm.

Thus, the SAF has been reviewing vocation requirements in terms of fitness and abilities, said Mr Ong, without elaborating.

He also updated the House on a review of the SAF's safety system by an external panel of safety experts that began in October 2013.

The panel completed its work recently and reported that the SAF's health and safety system is internationally one of the best, he said.

But there are also a few areas for improvement, such as the need to strengthen safety culture in SAF units and further promote open reporting of near-miss incidents.

The SAF has accepted the panel's findings and will improve on these areas, Mr Ong said.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Home Affairs







Security for events, buildings to be tightened
New laws this year will require businesses to adopt measures to guard against threats
By Danson Cheong, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Security for major events and new, large-scale commercial buildings will be improved as part of an ongoing drive to harden Singapore against the terror threat.

The Government will enact new laws this year to require businesses to adopt "certain measures" to guard against security threats, Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs Desmond Lee said yesterday.

The Public Order Act will be amended to require security measures at events with large crowds and those deemed to be at high risk of terrorist attacks.

A new Infrastructure Protection Act will also be introduced, to ensure selected key buildings have enough protection. It will require new, large-scale commercial buildings to go through a review during the design stage to determine what security measures are needed.

These proposed legal changes were among various initiatives announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) to counter the terror threat that Singapore faces, which remains high.

Mr Lee said his ministry will take a "practical approach" to keep costs reasonable for businesses.



During the debate on MHA's budget, Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam told Dr Tan Wu Meng (Jurong GRC) that the threat from terror groups like the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) remains high.

Responding to Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC), the minister outlined how the Home Team is strengthening capabilities.

The Immigration and Checkpoints Authority has started collecting iris scans to better verify travellers' identities, he said.

And frontline police officers will soon have their revolvers replaced with pistols which carry thrice the amount of ammunition.

Last year, the police rolled out emergency response teams - crack troops to respond to terror attacks. More cameras are also being installed in public areas to boost surveillance.

The Home Team will also ramp up its use of technology, including using drones to support operations.

Singapore's tough security laws, like the Internal Security Act, also play a critical role in combating the threat, Mr Shanmugam said, adding: "We will deal with anyone who engages in conduct that is potentially a trigger for terrorism. If necessary, we will detain the person."

He highlighted two examples in Europe where the authorities had to let terror suspects go because of a lack of evidence - these men eventually went on to conduct attacks.

"We should not reach this stage in Singapore. The trade-off for us is between taking a greater risk or intervening earlier. My view is that we must be able to intervene early and decisively," he said.

Meanwhile, Senior Minister of State for Defence Maliki Osman highlighted the threat posed by fake news, citing the newspaper reports which distorted facts and led to the Maria Hertogh riots in 1950 as an example of how information attacks could divide society.

This threat is far more dangerous now with the Internet and websites that post false claims, he added.

Terror groups like ISIS are also releasing propaganda online targeting Muslims in the region, noted Dr Maliki. "Our youths who are active on social media are particularly vulnerable," he said, urging individuals who come across extremist material online to check with the local religious authorities, and then counter these views.

MINDEF will also prepare its troops to counter terror threats - the new $900 million SAFTI City will have facilities for such training operations.

Singapore police seen as world-class crime fighters: Survey
By Seow Bei Yi, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

The Singapore Police Force scored high marks in the latest public perception survey, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam revealed yesterday, in the light of recent discussion about the public service.

"An incredible number of the public holds the police in high regard. Eighty-seven per cent regarded the police as a world-class crime-fighting organisation," Mr Shanmugam said during the Budget debate.

The 2016 survey involved 4,800 Singaporeans and permanent residents. The survey also showed that 90 per cent of respondents believe the police are ready to deal with any major law and order incident, and are well prepared to respond to future security needs, he said. Meanwhile, 88 per cent feel the police provide "a high quality of service".

Separately, 93 per cent of the respondents said they felt safe walking in their neighbourhood at night.



Mr Shanmugam credited the heightened police presence and the quick arrest of criminals as some reasons for the high score. "All of this reflects the extraordinary level of faith and trust Singaporeans have in the police force. I have no doubt that the same goes for other Home Team departments... Many law enforcement agencies around the world envy this," he added.

A key factor is the "immense dedication and commitment of our Home Team officers", said Mr Shanmugam, adding that the overall crime rate last year of 588 cases per 100,000 population was the lowest since 2014. That year, the figure was 589 cases per 100,000 people.

The survey results, made known to him on Thursday, may have been about the police, but they also give perspective to the discussions about the public service that had taken place in Parliament this week, he said. During day two of the Budget debate on Wednesday, several MPs cited anecdotes showing how the public service should think out of the box, and be less zealous about guarding its own turf.

Nominated MP Kuik Shiao-Yin said more could be done for the working poor, while Mr Louis Ng (Nee Soon GRC) said he was concerned the public service may lack heart in its pursuit of efficiency, and Ms Lee Bee Wah (Nee Soon GRC) pointed out that public servants can guard their turf too jealously, to Singaporeans' detriment.

These cases arise because of structural reasons or inter-agency issues, but "are the exception and not the rule", said Mr Shanmugam, who is the latest minister to defend the public service, after Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and Senior Minister of State Desmond Lee did so on Thursday. Said Mr Shanmugam: "In a large majority of cases, our public servants are outstanding, dedicated and go well beyond the call of duty and serve with heart," he said, adding that Mr Ng, Ms Lee and Ms Kuik share this view.

PUBLIC PERCEPTION SURVEY RESULTS

4,800 Singaporeans and permanent residents were surveyed by the police last year.

93 per cent felt safe walking in their neighbourhood at night.

92 per cent rated general safety and security in Singapore as "good" or "very good".

90 per cent believed the police are ready to deal with any major law and order incident, and are well prepared to respond to future security needs.

88 per cent felt that the police provide a high quality of service.

87 per cent regarded the police as a world-class crime-fighting organisation.

Almost half said the installation of police cameras at housing estates made them feel safer.

SGSecure reaching out to workplaces
Movement will train public officers, engage businesses and unions, and hold briefings for various industries
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Singapore's big push to get its people ready to respond to a crisis is making its way to workplaces.

Since its launch last year, the SGSecure movement has hit the heartland, where outreach efforts are under way to teach residents how to respond in the event of an attack.

This year, it will extend its reach to workplaces, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam said yesterday, urging companies to get involved.

He was giving more details on how SGSecure is set to grow this year. Mr Patrick Tay (West Coast GRC), Dr Tan Wu Meng (Jurong GRC) and Ms Rahayu Mahzam (Jurong GRC) had sought updates on the initiative during the debate on the Home Affairs Ministry's budget.

The SGSecure programme will train public officers and work with the Manpower Ministry, the National Trades Union Congress and the Singapore Business Federation to engage businesses and unions.

There will be SGSecure briefings and conferences, customised Emergency Preparedness Days and counter-terrorism seminars for industries, such as the security, manufacturing and hospitality sectors.

Efforts to strengthen community cohesion and resilience are set to continue, Mr Shanmugam said in a speech that sketched out the tense security backdrop in the region, and detailed how the threat posed by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria terror group has hit closer to home.

"We need to make sure our community comes together as one united people after an attack," he said.

Ms Rahayu also wanted to know how Singapore can better train its community leaders to respond in the wake of an attack.



Mr Shanmugam said a Crisis Response Exercise, which brings community stakeholders together in a simulated attack scenario, is being piloted within the constituencies.

Home Team psychologists will partner with the People's Association, and with psychologists from the Ministry of Social and Family Development and the Institute of Mental Health, to support and train grassroots leaders in giving psychological first aid to affected residents.

Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs Desmond Lee said the Home Team is also stepping up efforts to strengthen its partnerships with the community.

Mr Murali Pillai (Bukit Batok) has praised the Home Team for its hard work in keeping Singapore safe and secure, in a world grappling with rising threats to peace and security.

"We cannot afford to be complacent. The heavy responsibility of protecting Singapore does not and should not rest on the ministry and the Home Team alone," he said.

"We must recognise that this is a collective responsibility, which requires the combined effort of all of us who call Singapore our home."

Mr Lee agreed, saying: "An active citizenry that is invested in the safety and security of Singapore is essential to the Home Team's work."

He cited the Singapore Civil Defence Force's (SCDF's) Save-a-Life initiative, which aims to build a network of trained community responders to help those who suffer a cardiac arrest, as an example.

About 2,000 residents have been trained, and the programme hopes to train more than 24,000 residents in the coming years, he said.

More automated external defibrillators (AEDs) will be installed. By 2019, there will be 5,000 AEDs across Singapore - one for every two HDB blocks in all constituencies - up from close to 460 installed in eight constituencies currently.

Mr Lee encouraged more people to learn AED and cardiopulmonary resuscitation skills, and download the SCDF's myResponder app.

It alerts users to a report of somebody with cardiac arrest nearby, enabling them to respond quickly.

Positive peer 'influencers' to spread anti-drug message
By Seow Bei Yi, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

The Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) is ramping up its social media presence and looking to positive "influencers" to help spread its anti-drug message.

Amid the growing challenge of keeping Singapore drug-free, the Home Affairs Ministry announced a comprehensive strategy to engage youth yesterday, with prevention as its first line of defence.

Yesterday, Dr Tan Wu Meng (Jurong GRC) asked how young Singaporeans could be steered away from picking up the drug habit at an early age in the face of peer pressure.

Parliamentary Secretary Amrin Amin responded by revealing a new initiative to establish positive "influencers" in peer circles.

Young people from the Institute of Technical Education, polytechnics and universities have already signed up for this pilot of the Anti-Drug Advocate Programme, he said.

Youth who have signed up will learn about Singapore's drug policies and the harmful effects of substances, he added.

"They will visit halfway houses and drug rehabilitation centres, hearing first-hand accounts from ex-abusers on how hard it is to kick the drug habit," he said. "These youth will see what is really at stake if they try drugs."

Mr Amrin said the aim is to encourage youth to start initiatives that spread the anti-drug message among their friends.

"Prevention is the first line of defence," he added. "A key part of the battle is won if we can keep people away from drugs."



CNB statistics showed that close to two-thirds of new drug abusers arrested last year were below the age of 30.

There were also more cases of students abusing drugs, said Mr Amrin, replying to a question from Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) about the drug situation here.

Yesterday, Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam reiterated the need to safeguard Singapore's tough stance against drugs.

"The challenge of keeping Singapore drug-free is increasing," he said.

There are growing threats from the region, with South-east Asia being a major market and producer of illicit drugs. There is also a growing number of new drug abusers.

A survey by the National Council Against Drug Abuse last year found that young people below 30 were more open-minded towards drugs, compared with the figure in 2013, Mr Shanmugam said.

This problem is compounded by the rise of drugs available online, with black market sites allowing users to buy them anonymously.

While many think that only young people from low-income households are vulnerable, Mr Shanmugam said, a 2014 study found that most young cannabis abusers came from middle or high socio-economic backgrounds, and often did well in school.

He also said "there is increasing international pressure to adopt a softer, harm-reduction, approach".

But suggestions that such pressure will lead Singapore to deviate from its policies - such as the death penalty - are "delusional", he added.

"We do what is right for Singapore. A penalty will be in the books if we believe it to be right. It will be removed if we believe that removal is the right thing to do, and not because of any international pressure."

He added: "We have to remain steadfast in our resolve to keep Singapore drug-free."

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Law

Framework for in-house counsel to take effect this year
It will act as national standard and cover three competencies - legal, business and conduct
By Ng Huiwen, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

A new competency framework to raise the standards of in-house counsel will be launched this year, and the Ministry of Law will explore if it should be made mandatory in the future, said Senior Minister of State for Law Indranee Rajah.

Speaking during the debate on the ministry's budget yesterday, she said it will monitor the adoption of the framework.

She added that the ministry, together with the Economic Development Board, has been actively encouraging companies to "anchor their decision makers with global or regional mandate in Singapore". This includes in-house legal teams.

Singapore had more in-house legal employees than Hong Kong and Shanghai in 2014, she noted, citing a study of Fortune Global 500 employment in corporate functions by Aon.

Mr Patrick Tay (West Coast GRC) said the framework will set out a clearer career pathway for in-house counsel at different seniority levels.

It will act as a national standard for the in-house industry, he added.

Developed by the Singapore Corporate Counsel Association (SCCA), it will cover three categories of competencies: legal, business and conduct.

"Singapore should aim to be, and is certainly capable of becoming, the Asian hub for in-house legal capability," said Mr Tay, a corporate member of the SCCA. "This will help attract multinational corporations, whether Western or Asian, to invest or continue to invest here."

SCCA president Wong Taur-Jiun told The Straits Times yesterday that the association has been working on the framework for about a year, with its launch targeted for the second or third quarter of the year .

On top of some 2,000 in-house counsel here, recruiters and employers can benefit by referring to the framework during their hiring and training processes, he added.

To further develop the in-house legal talent pool, Mr Tay urged the Government to make the framework mandatory "at some point".

"Singapore is one of the few countries in which in-house counsel are not required to meet any form of professional standards, or any form of continuing education," he said.

Ms Indranee agreed with the need to upgrade capabilities among legal professionals: "To ensure that our legal industry continues to be vibrant and competitive internationally, key stakeholders must actively embrace disruptive change and grasp the opportunities at hand."

Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam, in his speech, called for more growth in the use of Singapore law in the region.

Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) asked how the ministry can boost the country's status as a dispute resolution hub.

Mr Shanmugam said there is an increasing use of Singapore law in cross-border transactions in the region. However, "growth in this trend must come from businesses, led by parties and industries".

He added that "they will benefit from the emergence of a default Asian law." He noted that the ministry has supported various centres of excellence, including those specialising in regional law.

Several MPs also asked about enhancing access to justice. Mr Tay sought an update on cases under the Protection from Harassment Act, which came into force in November 2014.

As of Jan 31 this year, there have been 268 applications for protection orders filed by victims of sexual, workplace and online harassment, Ms Indranee said. And 96 protection orders have been granted, with 99 applications withdrawn. There were also 77 expedited protection orders granted.

Attorney-General's Chambers

Not an issue that deputy A-G is former PAP MP: Indranee Rajah
By Danson Cheong, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

There should be no issue with the fact that Deputy Attorney-General (DAG) Hri Kumar Nair was a former People's Action Party (PAP) MP, Senior Minister of State for Law Indranee Rajah said yesterday.

She cited a number of countries that had attorneys-general with political affiliations, and pointed out that the Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) needed the best legal talent Singapore could offer.

She was responding to Workers' Party chairman Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC), who said appointing a party politician to the post could undermine "public confidence in the AGC's stated mission of fair and independent prosecution".

Ms Lim said this was because the AGC, as an organ of the state, should be independent and ready to rein in the Government if it "acts unlawfully or is abusing its power". Appointing a former MP to the DAG post is "not ideal" in such a context, she added.

Mr Nair, a senior counsel, began his three-year term as DAG this month. He was MP for Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC from 2006 to 2015, and is no longer a PAP member.



In her response, Ms Indranee said that in countries such as Britain, the United States and Australia, the attorney-general was a sitting MP or politician. She pointed out that the current attorney-general in the US, Mr Jeff Sessions, was a Republican senator. "As a matter of systems design, many countries see it perfectly proper to have an A-G who is a politician," she said.

But Singapore has a slightly different model, where the attorney-general and AGC officers are neither politicians nor political party members.

Even so, it would be going too far to suggest that AGC officers must not have had any links with political parties, she said. This is because it is the courts that decide on innocence or guilt - the attorney-general decides whether or not to prosecute.

She said the talent pool for the highest legal appointments is small. Of all the senior counsel appointed in the past decade, only 16 were in private practice.

One of them was Mr Nair, who is "among the top six to seven litigators" here, said Ms Indranee, adding that Mr Nair accepted his appointment despite the personal and financial cost.

"He loses the privacy he enjoyed in private practice. He also now earns significantly less than what he used to earn," she said, adding that Mr Nair's spirit of public service should be welcomed.

Of the top lawyers here, two - Senior Counsel Davinder Singh and Alvin Yeo - were former PAP MPs, and Senior Counsel Edwin Tong is currently a PAP MP for Marine Parade GRC.

Ms Lim then pointed out that even though ultimately, the decider in legal cases are the courts, by deciding which cases to prosecute, the attorney-general has "very wide prosecutorial discretion". Could the Government not find another candidate from the legal service to fill the post?

Law Minister K. Shanmugam rose to ask if Ms Lim would be more comfortable with Mr Singh or Mr Yeo in the post, noting that both these top lawyers were linked to the PAP.

He pointed out that there was "no question" as to Mr Nair's abilities. It is precisely because the AGC holds such powers of discretion that the Government chooses people of character and competence, he added. Such a philosophy has left Singapore's legal institutions - the judiciary, AGC, legal service and the Bar - "much better" than when the country was under British rule.

"This is a Government that builds up institutions, not pulls them down," said Mr Shanmugam.

In reply, Ms Lim said: "My reservations remain. Nevertheless, I do respect that the AGC has to continue with its work."

She also asked why the AGC's headcount had increased dramatically - at 594 this year, 42 per cent higher than its size seven years ago.

Ms Indranee said the rise was a move to "right-size" the AGC, as the complexity and volume of work it handled have gone up significantly.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Trade and Industry







Help for SMEs to tap opportunities abroad
Lim Hng Kiang outlines four key ways, including deeper international links with provinces, states and cities
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

An initiative to deepen international links with not just countries but also provinces, states and cities will make it easier for local companies to tap overseas opportunities, said Minister for Trade and Industry (Trade) Lim Hng Kiang yesterday.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) keen on expanding abroad will also be encouraged to partner larger companies and take advantage of the digital economy, he told Parliament during the debate on the Ministry of Trade and Industry's budget.

Mr Liang Eng Hwa (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC), Ms Cheryl Chan (Fengshan) and Mr Saktiandi Supaat (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC) had asked what mounting global anti-trade sentiment means for Singapore, and what support firms will receive to tap overseas opportunities.



Mr Lim said trade and external demand are key drivers of Singapore's economy, accounting for two-thirds of gross domestic product.

"Small and open economies like Singapore are especially vulnerable to global developments, but our external linkages can also make us more resilient," he added, noting that trade agency IE Singapore's Internationalisation Survey last year showed companies' overseas revenue grew 4.2 per cent year-on-year, faster than total revenue growth of 1.3 per cent.

Mr Lim outlined four key ways to help firms tap international opportunities. One involves Singapore continuing to take advantage of the 21 free trade and economic partnership agreements it has with 32 trading partners in multiple regions. These agreements helped firms benefit from tariff savings of more than $900 million in 2015 and also lower non-tariff trade barriers, he said.

Second, the country will deepen international links with provinces, states and cities. For example, the Vietnam-Singapore Industrial Park projects are spread across six provinces in Vietnam and cater to the priorities of each province, taking into account local skill sets and investors' demand.

There are also opportunities in developed markets - Singapore has hosted delegations from American states like Texas, Alabama and Washington, "all of whom have been eager to find new markets for their exports and welcome new investments", said Mr Lim.

The third way will see the Government ramping up support for companies keen on going global - for instance, by helping SMEs take advantage of the digital economy to access new markets.

Singapore firms can also partner larger companies to venture abroad, he noted. Companies can benefit from greater economies of scale by going abroad together, and trade associations and chambers can help foster such collaborations.

The final measure to support companies venturing abroad is the Global Innovation Alliance, which was announced in last month's Budget.

Economic agencies will work with institutes of higher learning to establish connections with technology and innovation hubs globally, Mr Lim said.



During yesterday's debate, Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S. Iswaran said "Singapore Centres" will be set up in key markets to strengthen coordination of agencies' overseas operations.

They will serve as the key point of contact for Singapore-based companies entering overseas markets, as well as for overseas investors keen on learning more about Singapore.

These centres have been set up in nine key markets so far, and will be extended to all 36 overseas locations where the Economic Development Board and IE Singapore have a presence, said Mr Iswaran.

More support for start-up scene here
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 4 Mar 2017

Singapore's start-up scene is set to get a boost, with more support for promising deep-technology companies and an enhanced scheme for foreign entrepreneurs keen to set up innovative businesses here.

Government schemes to support start-ups will also be unified under an umbrella called Startup SG, said Minister of State for Trade and Industry Koh Poh Koon in Parliament yesterday during the debate on the Ministry of Trade and Industry's budget.

He was responding to questions from MPs about government efforts to develop Singapore's start-up landscape.



The number of start-ups here more than doubled from 22,000 in 2003 to 48,000 in 2015, he noted.

Their quality has also improved, with significant increases in the number of start-ups that were bought over and their valuations at that point.

In 2015, 220 venture capital deals worth more than US$1 billion (S$1.4 billion) were completed, compared with 26 deals worth US$80 million just five years ago.

But more can be done to help start-ups, especially with branding, funding and attracting talent, Dr Koh said.

The move to unify start-up support schemes under the Startup SG umbrella is the first step towards creating "a coherent brand identity for the Singapore start-up scene that resonates among Singaporeans and the rest of the world", he added.

The Government will also ramp up co-investment support for promising start-ups in deep-tech fields such as medical technology, clean technology and advanced manufacturing, to catalyse private-sector investment for this group.

For instance, the cap for government co-investment in deep-tech start-ups will be raised from $2 million to $4 million.

To build up the entrepreneurial talent pool here, a work pass scheme known as EntrePass - for foreign entrepreneurs keen to start businesses in Singapore - will be enhanced, Dr Koh said.

There are three key changes to the EntrePass:

• Removing the requirement for applicants to have a paid-up capital of at least $50,000 in their start-ups;

• Broadening the evaluation criteria for global start-up founders with an established track record;

• Extending the validity of each EntrePass from the current one year to two years, if the entrepreneur has shown progress.

Foreign companies complement local start-ups "through the cross- fertilisation of ideas, catalyse new partnerships and create good jobs for our people", Dr Koh said, noting that foreign start-ups employed over 19,000 workers as of 2015.

"These enhancements will better position us to engage and attract a larger pool of global talent at an earlier stage, who can contribute to the vibrancy of our local start-up scene," he added.

"The enhancements are especially timely, given increasing international interest in Singapore as a global start-up destination."

Committee of Supply debate: Prime Minister's Office

Extra four weeks of unpaid infant-care leave for public servants
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

From July, the public service will give an extra four weeks of unpaid infant-care leave per parent under a pilot scheme announced yesterday.

The leave is to be taken in the child's first year.

With this latest move, public servants and their spouses are guaranteed a total of six months of parental leave per couple.

This means that as long as one parent is a public servant, the couple can have up to 26 weeks of leave, or six months, between them.

The scheme is to help ease new parents back to regular work and better support them in the workplace, said Senior Minister of State Josephine Teo, who oversees population matters.

"Parents are happy to have more time to care for and bond with their infants, and fathers can also play a bigger role in raising their newborns, all while remaining in employment," she said.

The scheme follows recent leave policies, such as the mandatory two weeks of paternity leave and new four weeks of shared parental leave.



Mrs Teo, whose population unit comes under the Prime Minister's Office (PMO), explained during the debate on the PMO's budget the rationale for giving an extra four weeks of leave to new parents.

Although infant-care centres can take in two-month-old babies, most parents feel more confident when their babies are aged at least six months, she said.

Under the existing leave policies, a couple get 20 weeks of paid leave, and two weeks of unpaid leave, in the baby's first year.

This leaves a potential gap of four weeks, which the new scheme of unpaid leave hopes to fill.

Both men and women can apply for the new leave. Supervisors have to say "yes" to all applications, as long as reasonable notice is given.

The scheme will last three years for now, said Mrs Teo, urging companies to have similar leave policies. But she acknowledged challenges such as the difficulties some employers face in accommodating staff with childcare needs.

"Some parents also tell of the pushback they experience from co-workers. Extending parental leave can unwittingly be an added source of tension at the workplace," she said.

Public servant Linda Wee, 32, said she and her husband Roy Ng, 35, who also works in the public service, are looking for an infant-care centre near their home for their newborn girl Rheya. But many centres in the neighbourhood of Tampines MRT station are full.

"The extra four weeks of leave will come in useful while we wait for a space at a centre," said Ms Wee.

In her speech, Mrs Teo also gave an overview of what else the Government is doing to support young couples who want to have children.

It includes faster access to public housing, and more places in infant- care centres.

For parents who want their infants to be cared for at home, NTUC's Seed Institute, which trains early childcare educators, will introduce a course to teach maids how to care for infants. It has 100 places now.

No pay cut for re-employed public servants
DPM: Move reflects practice in most firms; Govt recognises older workers' contributions
By Charissa Yong, Political Correspondent, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Older public servants who are re-employed at the same job grade will no longer have their salaries cut, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean said yesterday.

"These officers will continue to receive their last-drawn salary," said the minister-in-charge of the civil service, adding that the Government recognises the contributions and experience of its older workers.

Its move reflects the practice in most companies now, and is a result of the public service's latest review of its guidelines for re-employing workers, he said.

Re-employment contracts may be offered to officers who turn 62 up till age 67. About 1,300 officers were re-employed last year.



During the debate on the Prime Minister's Office budget, Mr Teo also outlined key priorities for the public service.

One of them is driving innovation.

Education Minister (Higher Education and Skills) Ong Ye Kung has been appointed to champion public service innovation and will focus on a number of key areas that require close coordination among agencies.

These include the review of regulations to better support innovation and entrepreneurship, and adopting procurement methods that support industry development.

In all, 24 MPs raised questions, asking about a range of public sector plans, from going digital to employing people with disabilities.

Mr Teo said another priority is to develop skills in IT and engineering in officers.

About 10,000 civil servants will be trained in the next four years in areas such as data analytics, in keeping with the country's push to go digital.

Such training will help them come up with policies and deliver better services to people, he said.

Developing public officers is another key priority, said Mr Teo, laying out the human resource policy changes in the pipeline.

From July, public officers and pensioners on older medical schemes who are hospitalised at community hospitals will have up to 28 days' stay covered.

Currently, their medical benefits cover only their stay in restructured hospitals.

The public service will also look at hiring more people with disabilities in meaningful jobs.

In response to Nominated MP Chia Yong Yong, Mr Teo said about 270 disabled people worked in the public service as of the end of last year.

Suitable vacancies are posted on the job portal run by disabilities support agency SG Enable, he added.

Senior public servants are also appointed to champion the hiring and integration of disabled people in their organisations.

No reason to worry about vote secrecy: DPM Teo
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Workers' Party (WP) Non-Constituency MP Leon Perera yesterday called on the Government to educate new citizens that their votes are secret.

He said he had met several new citizens who said they would lose their citizenship if they did not vote for the People's Action Party (PAP).

One was an older, highly educated man who feared it would happen if he voted for the WP.

Mr Perera, who spoke during the debate on the Prime Minister's Office budget yesterday, was rebutted by two ministers.

Senior Minister of State Josephine Teo, who is in charge of population matters, including new citizens, said the issue of electoral fraud had not been prominent in any election.

Also, most citizens believe in the secrecy of their vote, she added.

She noted that the vast majority of new adult citizens have lived in Singapore for at least five years before naturalisation, and would typically have witnessed at least one election before becoming citizens.

Mrs Teo also said that from an early age, she saw TV advertisements during elections assuring people that their votes are secret.

"I don't know of many other citizens who doubt that. I urge the Member not to be overly worried."

Mr Perera suggested that a paragraph on vote secrecy be added to the handbook given to new citizens.

Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean pointed out that the PAP and the Government had always said the vote is secret. He said the ones saying the vote was not secret was the WP. "Until they discovered it was not such a good idea... they now go out to tell people your vote is secret. For which we're grateful.

"The Government has been saying that all along and we're glad that you agree," said Mr Teo.

Vote secrecy: Charles Chong calls out Workers' Party on issue
The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

When the issue of voting secrecy was raised in Parliament last week, Workers' Party (WP) chief Low Thia Khiang said he could not remember his party ever saying the vote is not secret.

But former WP secretary-general J.B. Jeyaretnam had harped on the issue multiple times since writing a letter to then Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew in 1976 to seek confirmation that the ballot is secret, said Mr Charles Chong (Punggol East) in a post on the People's Action Party website on Sunday.

And in 1998, Mr Jeyaretnam had moved an adjournment motion where he highlighted the "fear of voting for the opposition, even to cast their vote" - a motion Mr Low supported, Mr Chong wrote.

Mr Chong said he could not help feeling a wave of "deja vu" when WP Non-Constituency MP Leon Perera called on the Government to educate new citizens that their votes were secret, during the debate on the Prime Minister's Office's budget last Thursday.

Mr Perera said he had met several new citizens who were afraid of losing their citizenship if they voted against the PAP.

"Sometimes the more things change, the more they stay the same," Mr Chong said.



Mr Perera responded on Sunday, saying that Mr Chong's post "seems to confuse two separate issues - whether or not our votes are secret (on which there is no dispute); and whether there is a fear among some voters that it is not, and if so how to counter that fear".

"From the article, it is not clear Mr Chong believes that no such fear exists, or such a fear exists but there is no need to counter it," Mr Perera wrote in a Facebook post.

Last week, Mr Perera was rebutted by Senior Minister of State Josephine Teo and Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean, who said the PAP and Government had always said the vote is secret.

Mr Chong said the exchange reminded him of the letter Mr Jeyaretnam wrote to Mr Lee in 1976. Mr Lee had replied the next day to confirm that "ballot has always been and is secret". Mr Jeyaretnam continued to press the issue, doing so again in 1979 when he called for the removal of the serial number on ballot papers.

"After 40 years, Singapore has progressed, but Mr Leon Perera is still parroting what Mr Jeyaretnam had said in 1976," Mr Chong said. "Where will we be, 40 years from now?"

Mr Perera added that Mr Chong did not explain why the Government does not expose new citizens to the concept of voting secrecy in Singapore. 

"For example, a short write-up could be inserted into the handbook for new citizens. In Parliament, I asked why this could not be done, since this is relatively easy and not costly to do," he said. 

Ministers defend public servants
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Three ministers came to the defence of public servants yesterday, a day after some MPs chided officers for not being as compassionate as they could have been in some scenarios.

Public officers work tirelessly to serve and care deeply about helping those in need, Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean and Senior Minister of State Desmond Lee said. "There are many examples of exemplary public officers who go the extra mile to help those with particular needs or are in distress," said Mr Teo, the minister-in-charge of the civil service.

Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam later wrote a Facebook note to Home Team officers to acknowledge the long hours they worked, sacrifices they made, and how they often went beyond the call of duty.

On Wednesday, Nominated MP Kuik Shiao-Yin said more could be done for the working poor, while Mr Louis Ng (Nee Soon GRC) said he was concerned that the public service may lack a heart in its pursuit of efficiency.

Ms Lee Bee Wah (Nee Soon GRC) made a similar point that public servants can guard their turf too jealously to the detriment of Singaporeans.



Mr Teo acknowledged that no system is perfect and the public service constantly strives to do better. But he added: "While our public officers at all levels work quietly and tirelessly and do not seek praise, a little encouragement does help."

He said: "I hope that Members will rise, from time to time... in this House to also offer encouragement for the good work of the many public officers who have worked hard and gone the extra mile to serve Singaporeans."

Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs and National Development Desmond Lee said some people might get the wrong impression that the public service had lost its heart, based on Ms Kuik's speech.

Replying, Ms Kuik said she did not believe that the public service had lost its heart.

"I know of many deeply compassionate civil servants, especially those who work in rental housing, who go out on a limb to make things work out for the needy," she added.

She also reiterated that the anecdote she had cited of a single mother living in a rental flat, facing financial difficulties while bringing up her children, was not a real-life example, but "a composite of a few stories of single-parent households".

Ms Kuik also made the point that public officers as well as MPs and members of the public themselves have a role to play, a point that Mr Teo later agreed with.

On Facebook, Mr Shanmugam said generalisations, from a few incidents, will not be accurate.

He added that the MPs had pointed out the good work that civil servants do, and wanted to highlight some areas where they felt things could be improved.

Ending his post, he said: "Keep up your good work, and continue to serve Singapore with your heart."

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Singapore's foreign policy 'begins at home'
How effective it is depends on the Republic's success and having support from a united citizenry, says Vivian
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

How effective Singapore's foreign policy is depends on the country's success, and having support from a united citizenry, said Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan yesterday.

The Republic's foreign policy begins at home, he added, as he outlined the key planks of Singapore's approach during the debate on his ministry's budget.



In the face of an uncertain external environment, he said, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs must work closely with other agencies to strengthen domestic resilience.

"This also means convincing Singaporeans of the need for consistent and principled diplomacy for our long-term interests, instead of taking the path of least resistance in order to achieve short-term gains," Dr Balakrishnan said, adding that the events of the last six months are a reminder of this.

Recent upheavals include the election of United States President Donald Trump and the seizure of Singapore Armed Forces armoured vehicles in Hong Kong.

The other key areas of focus are: remaining relevant to the world; maintaining an independent sovereign foreign policy to safeguard Singapore's interests and those of its people; promoting Asean unity and centrality; and commitment to a rules-based international system.

In the face of global upheavals, Singapore's foreign policy principles remain unchanged, said Dr Balakrishnan.

And amid rising global protectionist sentiments, the Republic has to "double down" on globalisation, he said, stressing that free trade is the country's lifeblood.

That is why recommendations by the Committee on the Future Economy and Budget 2017 are geared towards making Singapore more competitive, he said.

And as a tiny island in an uncertain neighbourhood, Singapore has to build a wide network of friends. "We have to be a relevant, valuable and reliable partner, and at the same time, be realistic about our place in the world."



In his wide-ranging speech in response to MPs who asked about Singapore's foreign policy direction and its foreign relations, Dr Balakrishnan also took stock of Singapore's ties with countries near and far.

Its ties with close neighbours such as Malaysia, Indonesia and Brunei are in good shape, while its relationship with China is in "good working order", he said.

And although a new administration has taken over in the US, Dr Balakrishnan said that "as far as Singapore is concerned, we believe that our many decades of consistent policies and interactions with the US have created trust".

He added: "I believe they consider us a reliable partner. I am confident that we will be creative and adaptable in developing win-win partnerships with the US even as President Trump pursues a new set of policies."

Dr Balakrishnan also pointed to the healthy trade and defence ties between both countries, and noted that Singapore is constantly looking for new areas to cooperate with the US, citing an agreement on cyber security signed last year.

On US-China relations, Dr Balakrishnan said it is the key bilateral relationship that will affect peace, security and prosperity in the region and beyond. While competition between the two powers is inevitable, they are now more economically intertwined than ever before, he said.

Dr Balakrishnan thus hopes both countries will come to the conclusion that constructive engagement and win-win cooperation is the right formula."We hope that they will arrive at this conclusion but we should also bear in mind that we have no say. We cannot determine the dynamics of that relationship."

And if, as Mr Low Thia Khiang (Aljunied GRC) put it, the US and China do not get along, Singapore should avoid being forced to choose sides for as long as possible, said Dr Balakrishnan.

Singapore must always remain "an honest broker" and take a consistent position with both countries.

Pedra Branca: Singapore confident of its team and case
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Singapore strongly believes that the documents relied on by Malaysia in its bid to overturn a 2008 judgment awarding Pedra Branca to the Republic do not satisfy the criteria under which it applied for a revision.

Its legal team has carefully studied the application that Malaysia filed last month at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), including the three documents it cited to support its bid, Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan said yesterday.

"We will submit to the ICJ our comprehensive and compelling rebuttal to Malaysia's application by June 14, which is the time limit fixed by the ICJ," he said during the debate on his ministry's budget. "We are confident of our legal team and our case."

He was responding to Parliamentary Secretary for Home Affairs Amrin Amin and Mr Baey Yam Keng (Tampines GRC), who asked about the Pedra Branca case.



Malaysia last month filed an application to revise the 2008 judgment, citing three "new facts" to argue that "Singapore's officials at the highest levels did not consider that Singapore had acquired sovereignty over Pedra Branca from Johor".

It based its application on Article 61 of the ICJ's Statute, which provides that an "application for revision of a judgment may be made when it is based only upon the discovery of some fact of such a nature as to be a decisive factor".

The fact had to be unknown to the court and also to the party claiming revision when the judgment was given.

The request for revision must also be made within six months of discovery of the new fact - in this case, Aug 4, 2016.

Malaysia cited three documents in its application last month. The first is a confidential telegram from Singapore's top colonial official to the British Secretary of State for the Colonies in 1958, which Malaysia says shows that he "did not consider the island of Pedra Branca to be part of Singaporean territory".

The second is a report about a naval incident near Pedra Branca.

The third document is a map of naval operations in the Malacca and Singapore straits from 1962.

Malaysia said two of the documents, from the United Kingdom National Archives, were declassified after the 2008 judgment. The third document's release date is unknown.

The territorial dispute between Singapore and Malaysia had also involved two smaller maritime features, Middle Rocks and South Ledge, near Pedra Branca.

The ICJ, in its 2008 judgment, found that sovereignty over Middle Rocks belongs to Malaysia and sovereignty over South Ledge belongs to the state in the territorial waters of which it is located.

The three features in the Singapore Strait are located about 40km east of the Republic's main island.

The ICJ had considered correspondence from 1953 between Singapore's colonial officials and Johor as being of central importance.

Johor's top official had written in a 1953 letter that "the Johor government does not claim ownership of Pedra Branca". The court found this showed that while Johor had the original title, "as of 1953, Johor understood that it did not have sovereignty over Pedra Branca".

Singapore's legal team on the case includes senior lawyers well- acquainted with the issue. Dr Balakrishnan said Singapore is very fortunate to still have former deputy prime minister and law minister S. Jayakumar, Ambassador-at-Large Tommy Koh and former chief justice Chan Sek Keong - the leading figures in the original team on the Pedra Branca case.

They are working with a younger team of "bright legal minds" in the Attorney-General's Chambers, to build up expertise and experience in the next generation, he added.

On whether this episode will affect ties with Malaysia, Dr Balakrishnan said bilateral relations are excellent, and mutually beneficial bilateral cooperation will continue.

Singaporeans should not be disconcerted by these developments, he said. "Even with the best of diplomatic and personal relationships, we must expect other states to act in their own self-interests."

Part of what underpins Singapore's good relations with Malaysia is a commitment by both sides to resolve disagreements amicably, in accordance with international law, while allowing cooperation to continue, he said.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry, in a separate statement yesterday, announced that Singapore has chosen Judge Gilbert Guillaume - a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration who was president of the ICJ from 2000 to 2003 - as a judge ad hoc for the case.

Under the ICJ's Statute, if there is no judge of the nationality of the parties on the Bench of the Court, the parties may each choose a judge ad hoc who will take part in the decision on the case.

Ties with China multifaceted and strong: Josephine Teo
Both sides will forge new areas of mutually beneficial cooperation, she says
By Pearl Lee, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

The friendship Singapore shares with China is one that has developed over the years, with the foundation laid in the early days by late state leaders Lee Kuan Yew and Deng Xiaoping, Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Josephine Teo said in Parliament yesterday.

Successive generations of officials and leaders on both sides continued building on the relationship.

Such strong friendship and goodwill allow both countries to speak candidly with each other, and discuss concretely how the relationship can be elevated, said Mrs Teo, speaking during the debate on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' budget.

This can be seen in the discussion of China's Belt and Road initiative, she said, referring to the programme that promotes infrastructure projects along historical land and sea trade routes.

Singapore has made three suggestions on the programme to China, she added.

One, the Southern Transport Corridor that links Chongqing to the Asean region, through the Beibu Gulf in southern Guangxi, can help to connect the land-based Silk Route Economic Belt with the ocean-going 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.

Two, greater trade, digital and financial connectivity along the Belt and Road will create investment opportunities and enhance the flow of goods and capital.

Finally, Singapore and China can work together to train officials from countries along the Belt and Road, to develop human capital. This will boost growth and hasten projects under the initiative.

These ideas were welcomed by the Chinese at the Joint Council for Bilateral Cooperation meeting that ended earlier this week, she said in a speech in Mandarin.

The joint council is a high-level platform for discussing ways to deepen and broaden Singapore-China cooperation.

Mrs Teo spoke at length on the deep ties between the two countries that started even before diplomatic ties were established in 1990.

The two countries now have three government-to-government projects - the Suzhou Industrial Park, Tianjin Eco-City, and the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative.

Singapore was one of the earliest supporters of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, an international financial institution China initiated that aims to build infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific.

"Our ties with China are in good working order, resilient, and well primed for the future," added Mrs Teo, who is also Senior Minister of State for Transport.

She was responding to some MPs who had asked how Singapore should navigate its relationship with China in the current world order.

Mr Low Thia Khiang (Aljunied GRC) said as China continues to rise, it will gather more economic and military clout to impose its will on Asia. Should the United States disengage from South-east Asia, Singapore runs the risk of becoming economically vulnerable to foreign policies shaped by China, he added.

Ms Sun Xueling (Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC) wanted an update on Sino-Singapore relations, saying the rough patch it hit last year seemed to be "behind us".

She also suggested the setting up of more contact points, both formal and informal, between the governments, businesses and people of both countries, to enhance communication and understanding.

Last November, Hong Kong Customs detained nine Singapore Armed Forces Terrex vehicles on their way to Singapore after a military exercise in Taiwan. Earlier, in September, Singapore's ambassador to China Stanley Loh had a public spat with the editor-in-chief, Mr Hu Xijin, of state-run Chinese tabloid Global Times over Singapore's role in the South China Sea dispute.

Mrs Teo said Singapore's relationship with China "has always kept up with the times, taking into account China's changing needs".

Both sides "will forge... new areas of mutually beneficial cooperation", she added.

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan also described Singapore's relationship with China as one that is high on resilience and strategic trust, owing to the frequent interactions between their senior leaders.

"Even when we have differences over some issues... we must recognise that our shared interests far exceed these differences," he said.

"We must not be distracted from the larger strategic imperatives, or allow incidents to derail the substantive, longstanding, and mutually beneficial cooperation."

Vivian Balakrishnan thanks Low Thia Khiang and Pritam Singh for support of Singapore's position
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 3 Mar 2017

Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan yesterday expressed his appreciation for bipartisan unity on matters of foreign policy.

Thanking Workers' Party MPs Low Thia Khiang and Pritam Singh for their "thoughtful speeches" during the debate on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' budget, he said: "This unity of purpose is essential for us to pursue our foreign policy goals in this uncertain and volatile environment."

Mr Singh was seeking more information on staffing needs in the light of global uncertainty, while Mr Low asked if Singapore needed to update its foreign policy to survive amid a changing global order.

Mr Low noted how Singapore's approach to foreign policy - its emphasis on international rule of law, and commitment to an open economy and freedom of navigation, among others - has earned it a "good deal of leg room" among major powers.



"Much of our foreign policy achievements are clearly due to our hard-working diplomatic corps, members of whom have been building on the foundation established by our premier statesman, the late Mr Lee Kuan Yew," Mr Low said.

But things are changing, he noted. The new US administration poses a challenge, he added, citing how the superpower had pulled out of the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement this year.

He also spoke of the seizure of the Singapore Armed Forces Terrex infantry carriers by Hong Kong Customs last year, and highlighted the critical challenges of a rising China.

While the Asian giant is an important strategic partner, Singapore must be mindful of not becoming too dependent on the Chinese economy, said Mr Low.

"Singapore not only risks becoming economically vulnerable to any strategic foreign policy shaped by China, the multiracial and multicultural character of our society will also come under pressure," said Mr Low.

The return of military national service in Europe

March 7, 2017, 5:06 am

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Countries which have long resisted the intellectual fashion to end conscription have been proven right
By Jonathan Eyal, Europe Correspondent, The Straits Times, 6 Mar 2017

LONDON • No government enjoys admitting that it got things wrong, and particularly not when it comes to decisions affecting national security. Yet that is precisely what Sweden's government did recently, when it owned up that a previous decision to abolish military national service was endangering Sweden's security, and reversed it by reintroducing conscription.

Nor is it the only government to do so; neighbouring Lithuania also reinstated the draft, and a number of other European governments are planning to follow suit. But Europe's teenagers are returning to the barracks not only because their continent's stability can no longer be taken for granted, but also because the original decision to abolish national service throughout much of Europe has resulted in a number of negative consequences which few initially predicted.

Either way, the countries which for long have resisted the intellectual fashion to end conscription were proven right, and can now afford to feel vindicated.

Critics of conscription have dominated the debate on this topic for decades, well before the end of the Cold War. Many of their arguments are by now very familiar.

Drafting young people may be a cheap source of manpower for the military, but it is expensive for a national economy since it usually means that draftees embark on their university or professional education at a later stage in their lives and join the labour force at an older age, and that imposes a hidden but nevertheless very real opportunity cost on a country's well-being.

Conscription, critics argued, can also "brutalise" youth by legitimising violence and conflicting with religious and other personal faith convictions.

It also creates other invidious social divisions which can mark a youngster for the rest of his life: those who fail or avoid the draft for health reasons usually find it difficult to get a high-flying civilian job in countries such as Israel or Finland, where a "clean record" of military service is regarded as a prerequisite for any reputable position.

And, far from being a social leveller, the sons of rich parents still get a better deal than the rest of the population, either by scooping up easy military jobs or, as is the case currently in Russia, by registering for university doctorates which are never completed but provide a permanent deferment from national service.

But the most persuasive arguments against conscription were provided after the end of the Cold War. Allegedly, countries no longer needed large standing militaries; in an age of rapid technological advances, what was the point of having large numbers of kids learning to hold rifles, when what militaries really needed were mature but far fewer soldiers operating sophisticated weapons?

And, since most of the wars which European armed forces anticipated were from now on supposed to take place outside their continent, what was the point of having draftees who are simply too "green" to be dispatched overseas? The answer surely rested - the critics of conscription argued - in smaller, nimbler professional forces.

And European politicians embraced this argument, partly because the abolition of conscription was popular with electorates, but also because politicians bought into the idea that the safety of their countries was no longer a matter of life-and-death, that all future wars in which Western forces would be engaged would be wars of choice rather than of necessity.

National service was, therefore, abolished in one European country after another. And, as is often the case with Europeans, the moment they bought into an idea, they also immediately started preaching it to others: Governments around the world were told that they were "behind the times" if they maintained national service.

What went wrong? Almost everything. To start with, it is worth pointing out that the concept of national service always answered different needs in different countries. In Britain, for instance, conscription was always seen as an exception rather than a rule, a utilitarian exercise to be undertaken only when strictly needed; as astounding as this may seem, the British empire - the largest the world has ever known - was created during the 19th centuries by just career soldiers and mercenaries, while conscription was introduced only in 1916 and abolished by 1960.

In other European countries - and especially those which, unlike Britain, did not have the luxury of being an island - national service was the only method to ensure adequate defence.

But in a few European countries, conscription was more than a defence mechanism; it was an exercise in nation-building, a ritual and repeated act of commitment to the nation by every successive generation. As a result, proposals that national service should be abolished were rejected by the public itself. The voters of Switzerland, for instance, decisively rejected plans to eliminate the draft no fewer than three times over the past 25 years and, interestingly, each time by bigger majorities.

Nor are they alone. A crushing majority of Austrians rejected the idea of ending the draft in a referendum back in 2013 while in Cyprus, Greece, Denmark and Finland, the debate was less acrimonious but the decision to keep conscription equally strongly held, for largely similar reasons.

Yet even in the countries which ended conscription, problems quickly became apparent. One difficulty is that, paradoxically, the move to a smaller professional force turned out to be more expensive, as soldiers needed to be paid big salaries and long-term financial provisions for their families needed to be factored in.

Another paradoxical difficulty is that the more a country's economy performs well, the smaller the pool of people available for military recruitment, since youngsters have financial opportunities the military cannot match. France, for instance, has no problem filling its military recruitment quotas because it suffers from big and chronic youth unemployment, but Sweden's armed forces have not met their recruitment targets in every single year since national service ended there in 2009. The result is that a nation has to choose between a good economy and a poor military, or a good military and a poor economy - not exactly a very enviable choice.

Old strategic certainties have also been dispelled. Russia is now regarded as a threat by most European nations; Swedish military planners recently watched helplessly while Russian aircraft simulated targeted attacks on Stockholm, their capital, in an exercise, for instance.

Meanwhile, the people of Central Europe worry about large concentrations of Russian troops on their borders. War is not imminent in Europe, but it is no longer credible to claim that it is impossible. And it is no longer feasible to claim that a larger military makes no difference in defending national territory; yet again, quantity has a quality all of its own.

However, probably the biggest damage which the end of conscription inflicted on Europe is by creating a dangerous gulf between military commanders and politicians. In the old days of conscripted militaries, most European politicians would have had military experience and, even if this extended no further than national service, it gave politicians and decision-makers an understanding, however rudimentary, of military life, ethos and decision-making.

Sending conscript militaries into battle was also not something governments could do at will, since putting soldiers in harm's way was unthinkable without forging a broad and firm national consensus at home.

But in the age of professional militaries, politicians feel able to send soldiers to war without obtaining broad domestic support, since few families are impacted by such decisions. And few of the politicians who opt for war genuinely understand what this means; the result is both more European deployments overseas, and more botched ones as well, just about the worst of all worlds.

The return of conscription in some European countries is not an exercise in straight historic backtracking: In all European countries where the topic is either being decided or debated now, the aim is not to return to the past, but to broaden military service to both young men and women on an equal basis, and to recruit selectively, at least to start with.

Still, the episode is an admission that the continent has not been thinking straight about its defence structures - as well as being a reminder to countries like Singapore that resisting intellectual fashions and remaining cautious about ditching existing defence arrangements is usually the best approach.

Budget 2017 Committee of Supply Debate: MOE, MND, MOF, MOM, MCI

March 8, 2017, 9:25 pm

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Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Education

Education focus shifts to students' strengths
More aptitude-based admissions in ITE, polys and unis; Direct School Admission tweaked
By Sandra Davie, Senior Education Correspondent, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

The Ministry of Education (MOE) has rolled out a string of measures to encourage students to play to their strengths and tweaked admission criteria to make this possible.

The Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme, seen by many parents as an entry ticket to top schools, will be changed to reclaim its original purpose - to recognise and nurture a diversity of talent in students.

Aptitude-based admissions will be expanded for the Institute of Technical Education (ITE), polytechnics and universities.

Normal stream students in all eligible schools will be given the chance to study their stronger subjects at higher academic levels.

The changes were announced yesterday by Minister for Education (Schools) Ng Chee Meng and Minister for Education (Higher Education and Skills) Ong Ye Kung, who underlined a decisive shift across all levels of the system to focus on recognising a student's interest and aptitude in particular fields.



Mr Ng announced that, from this year, schools will discontinue the use of general academic ability tests to assess DSA applicants. Instead, they will consider talents in specific domains.

He also announced that, from next year, all secondary schools can set aside up to 20 per cent of their places for the DSA.

Currently those with MOE-approved niche programmes can reserve 5 per cent of their intake for the scheme.

Mr Ang Wei Neng (Jurong GRC) and Mr Edwin Tong (Marine Parade GRC) pointed out that, although the scheme was started in 2004 to broaden admission criteria beyond PSLE results, over the years, it has been used to get into premier schools that offer the Integrated Programme (IP).

Instead of being a pathway for students with talents in, for example, the arts and sports, it was being used by academically bright students to secure a Secondary 1 place even before they took the Primary School Leaving Examination.

Specialised independent schools and those offering the IP can continue to take in up to 100 per cent of their students via the DSA, although the MOE said IP schools on average take only 35 per cent of their students via the DSA scheme.

Mr Ng also announced changes for Normal stream students to help them build on their strengths.

From next year, Normal stream students will be able to take up subjects at a higher academic level from Secondary 1, instead of Sec 3.

"If they are good at something, we want to help them hone their strengths into deep knowledge and skills," said Mr Ng.



In a similar vein, Mr Ong announced the expansion of aptitude-based admission for ITE, polytechnics and universities "because we are simply better at doing something we like".

This year, some 15 per cent of the intake in universities will be aptitude-based. An early admission exercise will see a similar proportion of students securing a place in ITE, based on their strengths.

"Our post-secondary educational institutions today must have an additional mission - to uncover and develop diverse talents," said Mr Ong.

Mr Bertrand Lim, 42, who has two teenage sons, welcomed the expansion of aptitude-based admissions. He said: "No doubt, aptitude-based admissions will be messy to implement. But it will be well worth it if the school system can accommodate the interests and abilities of all children."

Polys, ITE to take in more students based on aptitude
From next year, Early Admissions Exercise can admit up to 15% of poly intake, up from 12.5% currently
By Calvin Yang, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Polytechnics and the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) will admit more students based on talents and interests, as they widen the focus beyond academic grades alone.

All five polytechnics will be taking their existing aptitude-based admissions up a notch, even after the intake of such students was recently expanded last year.

From the next academic year, the Early Admissions Exercise (EAE) will be able to admit up to 15 per cent of the polytechnic intake, up from the current 12.5 per cent.

This means that over 500 more places would be made available for these students, Education Minister (Higher Education and Skills) Ong Ye Kung said yesterday.

This comes after there was strong interest shown among students entering the polytechnics this year. The scheme allows students to secure a place in a programme of their choice using course-specific talents and interests, even before they sit the O levels or ITE final exams.

A similar exercise known as the ITE EAE will be put in place for those entering the ITE from next year. It will also be able to admit up to 15 per cent of the intake.

The ITE admits about 14,000 students in total each year.

"For those who are clear about what they want to pursue, we should support them as much as possible, to facilitate their admission into our PSEIs (post-secondary education institutions) based on interests and aptitudes, and not just based on academic results," said Mr Ong.



He also highlighted how polytechnics said the scheme is useful in sectors such as early childhood, nursing, social work or creative subjects, where aptitude and commitment to the career are crucial.

Hand in hand with this will be the growing role of education and career guidance, which will help students discover their interests, and guide them in their choice of studies and career, said Parliamentary Secretary for Education Low Yen Ling.

"Because when our students understand their abilities, strengths and their interests, as well as the options available and what it takes, then our students can make better decisions about their education pathways, vocations and career choices," she explained.

The changes come as the Government works towards transforming the higher education landscape here to cope with a changing world.

Mr Ong said: "We have an effective and internationally well-regarded education system.

"But sometimes a great strength can also be a weakness. It gives rise to a temptation to just tinker around at the edges, instead of making more fundamental but necessary changes."

Part of the shift involves fulfilling the hopes and aspirations of students through education. This, said Mr Ong, need not be at odds with education's aim to find good jobs and lifelong employability.

Other shifts include encouraging lifelong learning, which involves finding relevant and concise training for working adults, and helping Singaporeans adapt to a data-rich and digital working environment. Education must also impart skills and not just information, Mr Ong added, stressing the need for hands-on learning.

Mr Ang Wei Neng (Jurong GRC) and Dr Lim Wee Kiak (Sembawang GRC) noted how aptitude-based admissions give those who may not have done well in school a second chance and help reduce the overemphasis on grades.

But reflecting the concerns of parents, Dr Lim cautioned against a purely aptitude-based system, which may be too subjective as it is dependent on the assessors.

20% of places in sec schools to be kept for students with no affiliation
The allocation, from 2019, will ensure schools are open to all, regardless of backgrounds or connections
By Yuen Sin and Toh Wen Li, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

From 2019, one-fifth of places in Singapore secondary schools that are affiliated to primary schools will be set aside for students who do not benefit from affiliation priority.

In announcing the 20 per cent allocation in Parliament yesterday, Education Minister (Schools) Ng Chee Meng said that while affiliation helps to "foster a strong school spirit and preserve schools' traditions and ethos", the Government has to ensure that schools are open to all students, regardless of their backgrounds or connections.



In response to media queries, the Ministry of Education (MOE) said that the 20 per cent figure takes reference from its policy of reserving 40 places for students with no prior connections to the school during the Primary 1 registration exercise.

The rule was implemented in 2014 to provide open access to schools. The figure of 40 is about 20 per cent of a typical primary school's P1 enrolment of 210 pupils.

There are 27 secondary schools here that are affiliated to primary schools with links to religious and clan associations. Most already have students from non-affiliated schools making up at least 20 per cent of the student population.

However, between six and eight schools have non-affiliated students making up less than 20 per cent of the population each year, said the MOE.

Students applying for a place in an affiliated secondary school have to meet the cut-off set by the school and list the school as their first choice to qualify for priority.

The entry scores for affiliated and non-affiliated students at some schools can vary. Schools can set the minimum entry standards, subject to MOE approval, for affiliated students, and these are usually lower than the standards that non-affiliated students have to meet. For example, for entry into CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh), affiliated students need a T-score of only 200 to get into the Express stream. Other students had to score 243 and above to secure a place last year.

This discrepancy was pointed out during the MOE's budget debate on Monday by Dr Lim Wee Kiak (Sembawang GRC), who asked if the affiliation priority scheme can be gradually phased out. Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar (Ang Mo Kio GRC) also described school affiliation as "a bugbear for many parents and students".

"Parents whose children are not in primary schools affiliated to popular schools are worried that their children will have little chance of gaining admission... Parents whose children are still in pre-schools are also getting very worried because they want to ensure their children can enrol in a primary school affiliated to a popular school," she said.

Mr Gerard Ee, chairman of the St Joseph's Institution (SJI) board of governors, welcomed the move to give more non-affiliated students opportunities to study at such schools. "It is good that students can mix as much as possible with those from other backgrounds, and you don't end up with a group moulded with the same mindset," said Mr Ee.

Currently, the number of SJI students from its affiliated schools make up close to 40 per cent of the student population.

Ms Geraldine Tan, 41, has a daughter in Primary 4 at Paya Lebar Methodist Girls' School who will be among the first batch of students to be affected by the new move. "If she wants to move up to secondary school with her peers, she will have to make sure she does well," said Ms Tan, who is self-employed. Still, the 20 per cent figure that was announced yesterday is a reasonable quota, she added.

New diploma to help ITE grads take on larger roles
By Calvin Yang, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

A new diploma to help Institute of Technical Education (ITE) graduates in technical trades to upgrade their skills and take on larger job roles will be rolled out soon.

The technical diploma, which will be awarded by ITE, is offered as a new pathway under the SkillsFuture Earn and Learn programme, which encourages fresh polytechnic and ITE graduates to work and gain qualifications at the same time.

Under the Earn and Learn programme, an ITE graduate gets a diploma and a polytechnic graduate receives an advanced or specialist diploma. It is part of the Ministry of Education's (MOE) push to make students' transition between study and work as seamless as possible.



For a start, the ITE technical diploma will be introduced in sectors such as security system engineering, rehabilitation therapy, offshore and marine engineering, mechanical and electrical services, and design and supervision. These sectors were identified based on industry demand as well as the presence of strong apprenticeship partners.

MOE said this technical diploma "will be apprenticeship-based and thus in a mode of learning best suited for the strengths of ITE students, to gain mastery in technical trades". More details will be provided later.

Education Minister (Higher Education and Skills) Ong Ye Kung said yesterday that the "ethos of 'learning by doing' actually has been the strongest at ITE", a result of its tradition of vocational education and its highly practical curriculum. "With this new pathway, ITE students need not see polytechnics as their only path for progression. They can advance through skills mastery and practice, by staying with ITE," he said.

Currently, under Earn and Learn, ITE graduates are already able to work towards a part-time polytechnic diploma in the air transport, hotel and public transport sectors. These are offered by Temasek Polytechnic, Republic Polytechnic and Singapore Polytechnic respectively.

Over 500 polytechnic and ITE graduates took part in Earn and Learn last year. This is higher than the 400 placements targeted for the year.

Focus on sport, art or specific academic talent for direct entry
DSA tweaks will bring scheme back to its original intention of recognising diverse talents
By Calvin Yang, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Sporting or artistic talent, or specific academic ability such as in languages or science - these criteria, instead of general academic ability, will determine whether students are selected under the Direct School Admission (DSA), Education Minister (Schools) Ng Chee Meng announced yesterday.

This comes after a review of the scheme. Since it was introduced in 2004, it has been criticised for moving away from its original intention of recognising diverse talents.

Instead, as Mr Ang Wei Neng (Jurong GRC) put it in Parliament on Monday, it is like a "backdoor" for academically talented pupils, including those in the Gifted Education Programme (GEP), to enter popular schools, such as those offering the Integrated Programme (IP).

Schools offering the IP allow students to bypass the O levels. The GEP is an elite programme for the academically gifted.

The DSA scheme should not be seen as an entry ticket to popular schools, agreed Mr Ng, as he announced a series of tweaks to bring the scheme back to its original aim.

By next year, pupils applying for the DSA will not sit for general academic ability tests. These tests, which assess general reasoning and problem-solving skills, "inadvertently put undue focus on general academic abilities, rather than identifying specific strengths", said Mr Ng.

He added that those with strong general academic abilities "would already be able to qualify for the school with their PSLE results".

Instead, schools will focus their efforts on "identifying sporting talent, artistic talent or academic talent in specific domains, for instance, languages, maths or science", he said.

Mr Ng highlighted how the DSA is supposed to work through the example of CHIJ St Theresa's Convent's hockey team. He said a few of the members joined the school, known for its hockey prowess, via the DSA as "they fell in love with hockey at primary school, and wanted to further develop their talent".

Schools can use a range of assessment tools, such as interviews and auditions, to admit students under the DSA, which grants Primary 6 pupils places in schools before they take the PSLE.

There were 16,000 DSA applications last year - 1,000 more than in the year before. Some 2,800 pupils succeeded in getting a place via the DSA. Mr Ng said about half of those were admitted into the IP.

More pupils whose talents lie beyond book smarts will have a shot at getting into their secondary school of choice with the expansion of the DSA. From next year, all secondary schools will be able to reserve up to a fifth of their non-IP places for pupils entering via the DSA. The non-IP route prepares students to sit the N or O levels at the end of their secondary school education.

This means that autonomous schools and schools with niche programmes, which can currently reserve up to 10 per cent and 5 per cent of their intake for the scheme respectively, will see the cap increased. The cap for independent schools will remain at 20 per cent.

Mr Ng said: "With this expansion, students can better access schools with suitable programmes via DSA, to nurture their strengths, talents and interests."

From 2019, pupils will also apply for the DSA through a centralised portal, using a common application form.

Mrs Lydia Wong, who has two primary school-going children, said: "For years, parents have tried to game the system, such as by sending their kids for special classes to prepare them. But I am glad that MOE is tackling the problem and returning the DSA to its original intent to recognise specific talents. Only then can we help kids to nurture their gifts."

Scheme allows Normal stream students to take subjects at higher level
By Yuen Sin, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

From next year, a pilot scheme that allows lower secondary students from the Normal (Academic) and Normal (Technical) streams to take subjects at a higher academic level will be extended to all schools.

The scheme, which has been on trial in 12 secondary schools since 2014, allows students from the N(A) and N(T) streams who score at least an A for English, mathematics, science or mother tongue at the Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) to study the corresponding subjects at the Express level.

Students in the N(T) course who score B or C in a standard PSLE subject or a 1 in a Foundation subject, could take the subject one level higher, at the N(A) level. If students perform well in their subjects after starting Secondary 1, their schools may also offer them the chance to take subjects at a higher level.

Responding to Dr Intan Azura Mokhtar (Ang Mo Kio GRC), who asked on Monday if streaming can be done away with, Education Minister (Schools) Ng Chee Meng said in Parliament yesterday that streaming has served students well in catering to different learning needs, resulting in low attrition rates.

"Nonetheless, I recognise that we cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach... For students with uneven strengths across their subjects, they can stretch themselves in their areas of strength through subject- based banding."

This builds on a flexible subject- based banding (SBB) system that has already been in place for upper secondary students since 2003. N(T) students can study N(A) subjects, while N(A) students can study O-level subjects at Sec 4. In lower secondary, students can take up to three subjects at a higher level, while there is no cap on the number of higher-level subjects that upper secondary students can take if they are eligible.

About half of Sec 1 N(A) students and about 70 per cent of N(T) students in the 12 schools where SBB was piloted took at least one higher- level subject between 2014 and last year. This translates to about 400 N(A) students and 300 N(T) students across all 12 schools each year.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) added that most from the first batch of Sec 1 students who took higher-level subjects in 2014 continued taking at least one higher-level subject in Sec 3 and 4. A small number of students, however, did not continue due to "difficulties in keeping up with the faster pace of learning and the heavier load".

To help schools and teachers cope, the MOE has allocated more teachers to schools with more N(A) and N(T) students. Teaching resources, as well as courses and networking sessions, have also been organised by MOE to support and guide these teachers.

Mrs Pauline Wong, principal of CHIJ St Theresa's Convent, one of the 12 schools that joined the pilot, said that more planning and resources are needed to ensure that SBB is implemented smoothly.

"Our planning time has doubled because of its complexity. You now have more learning groups, and you need more teachers and spaces where students can have classes," she explained.

But she added that SBB has been a "morale booster" for her students, including even those who had to drop the higher-level subjects because they could not cope academically. She said: "They actually do very well when they go back (to taking the subject at a lower level) because they have a good foundation."

Fifteen-year-old Pritika Satewan, a Sec 4 N(A) student at St Theresa's Convent, was offered the chance to take maths at the Express level when she scored well in Sec 1, despite scoring a C in the subject in the PSLE. Pritika, who hopes to gain entry to junior college, said that taking subjects at a higher level reduces the number of subjects that she has to study for when she gets to the O level next year.

"When I was first offered the chance to take (higher-level maths), I was scared that I would fail," recalled Pritika.

But she has done well in the subject. "If students... are not scoring well initially, it's because it is a change for them, and they can get better with practice," she said.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of National Development

Shorter waiting time for 1,000 new BTO flats
First-time home buyers to get priority for the faster flats located in non-mature estates
By Rachel Au-Yong, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Next year, young couples can pick a home from 1,000 new flats that will be ready a lot earlier.

The waiting time for these flats in non-mature estates will be 21/2 years compared with the current waiting time of three to four years.

The HDB has assured would-be buyers that the shorter waiting time will not translate into significantly higher prices.

In addition, first-time home buyers will get priority for these flats, which - unlike the typical Build-To-Order (BTO) flats - will be built before the HDB receives an optimum number of applicants.

Explaining the move in Parliament yesterday, National Development Minister Lawrence Wong said: "I know there are many young couples who hope to move into their own home even more quickly, to embark on their marriage and parenthood journey together. We've looked into their requests seriously."

With this latest offer, couples have four HDB flat purchase options: a normal BTO flat, a faster BTO flat, a flat from the pool of unsold flats, or a resale flat.



Mr Wong, speaking during the debate on his ministry's budget, said first-time home buyers will get priority for the faster BTO flats.

Of these, at least 95 per cent of the four-room or bigger flats will be set aside for these first-timers, up from the current quota of 85 per cent. More details will be made known later.

Another change Mr Wong announced is that the HDB will offer in one common pool the flats that remain unsold after a Sale of Balance Flat (SBF) exercise.

They will be sold at regular intervals, with priority given to first-time households. The first such sale will be held in the second half of this year.

The typical SBF exercise is currently held twice a year, and there are separate selection queues for each town and flat type.



Housing experts said the new options will be well-received.

R'ST Research director Ong Kah Seng predicted at least 1.5 applications for each faster BTO flat.

"Currently, young couples who urgently need flats only have resale ones as a costlier alternative.

"A BTO flat that comes with a shorter wait and is more affordable will excite them," said Mr Ong.

PropNex Realty chief executive Ismail Gafoor, referring to the four purchase options, said: "They have varying timelines, which means young couples can choose and make their plans with greater certainty. This, in turn, helps to reduce conflict that may arise from confusion about their next move."

The duration of a resale transaction looks set to be shortened too.

Said Mr Wong: "We can leverage on technology and make the process faster and more streamlined." The details will be announced later.

At present, it takes about 16 weeks for the deal to be completed and requires two appointments with the HDB.

The suite of changes comes on the back of an increase in subsidy for young couples buying resale flats.

The increase in the CPF Housing Grant was unveiled in the Budget statement last month.

Previously capped at $30,000, the grant was raised to $50,000 for four-room or smaller resale flats, and to $40,000 for five-room or larger flats.

More schemes to help elderly home buyers
By Ng Jun Sen, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

There will be more help given to elderly home buyers seeking smaller Housing Board flats.

This includes a new deferred down payment scheme (DDS) available from the Build-To-Order launch in May. It allows eligible buyers aged 55 and above to make a down payment only when they collect the keys.

A new temporary loan scheme (TLS) will also allow buyers to finance their purchases without taking out a mortgage, National Development Minister Lawrence Wong said in Parliament yesterday.

The schemes will help elderly flat owners like Mr Sin Guin Pui, 86. With both children grown up, the kitchen helper has little need for the extra bedroom in his three-room Havelock Road flat. So he and his wife Chan Man Foong, 65, downsized to a two-room flat in 2015. "Thankfully, I had enough proceeds from the sale to not require another loan," he said.

But not all elderly folk are as fortunate.



Buyers currently need to pay a minimum of 5 per cent to 10 per cent of the flat purchase price when they first sign the lease agreement with the HDB. The balance is due when the keys of the new flat are ready for collection but they may not have the cash available until they sell their current home.

With the DDS, elderly buyers need to pay only the stamp and legal fees when they sign the lease, deferring the down payment to later. The DDS applies only to two-room Flexi or three-room flats.

They may also take out a bridging loan from HDB under the TLS. The size of the loan depends on what is needed to purchase the new flat.

An express queue for seniors has been implemented at HDB Hub since December last year.

Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme: Lower rents for those in temporary flats scheme
By Ng Jun Sen, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Monthly rents for flats under the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) will be slashed by as much as $400 from April 1.

The change means young couples awaiting the completion of their first Housing Board flats can rent units at rates that are less than half of those offered by private landlords.

National Development Minister Lawrence Wong announced the change during the debate on his ministry's budget yesterday.

"We know that every dollar counts for a young family just starting out. That is why HDB rents out PPHS flats at subsidised rates," said Mr Wong.

The rates depend on flat type and location. The PPHS was launched in January 2013 and now has 1,300 three- and four-room flats in Bedok South, Commonwealth, Jurong, Tiong Bahru, Eunos, Boon Lay and Bukit Merah.

About 2,000 families have benefited from the PPHS to date and more than 400 babies have been born to families living in the flats. There are currently 780 households enrolled in the scheme.

The lower rents apply both to new and existing tenants.

Mr Dani Dawood, 44, and his family of four used to rent a studio apartment in Telok Blangah for $1,400 per month and are paying $1,100 now for the three-room Commonwealth Drive unit while they wait for their flat in Yishun to be built.

Said Mr Dani, a private tutor: "Unlike my previous landlord who could raise the rent at any time, the Government is in fact lowering it further, which is great."

Engineering manager Steve Tan, 31, said this would give young couples an alternative besides living with their parents after marriage.

Said Mr Tan, who welcomed his eight-month-old son while living in a PPHS flat: "Even though the rent is quite substantial, we are willing to pay for our own private space. The new rates make it a lot better."

Plans to transform farms in Singapore
AVA's Farm Transformation Map focuses on overcoming space constraints, boosting innovation
By Audrey Tan, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

"Frog princess" Chelsea Wan, 33, is a second-generation farmer who plans to take big leaps to make farming a sustainable option in Singapore, which dedicates just 1 per cent of its land area to this sector.

No more is Ms Wan content with just selling frog legs. Rather, she is looking to diversify by selling more frog parts, like ovary ducts.

Some may groan at the thought of it, but others are willing to pay up to $105 per tael (50g) for this delicacy, also known as hashima.

Ms Wan, who is director of Jurong Frog Farm, sits on a new industry consultation panel formed by the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority (AVA) in January to look at improving Singapore's farming sector.

Through focus group discussions involving the panel, AVA has since come up with a Farm Transformation Map to guide changes to the local farming sector.



Yesterday, Minister of State for National Development Koh Poh Koon gave details of the plan during the debate on the ministry's budget.

A key focus is how farms can overcome space constraints. Said Dr Koh: "We need to go upwards into the sky, downwards into the ocean and inwards within our buildings."

There are already farms doing this, he said, citing how fish farm Barramundi Asia is growing seabass in deep underwater net cages just off Pulau Semakau.

Innovation is also important, so food supplies are safeguarded in a climate of erratic weather patterns and natural phenomena that could affect crops.

Dr Koh also said that Singapore needs to build up a generation of "agri-specialists". This could involve polytechnic students doing internships at local farms, or getting institutes of higher learning to collaborate with farmers on research.

AVA will also be making changes to its Agriculture Productivity Fund, which co-funds investments in technology. Currently, farmers have to foot the entire bill first before claiming from AVA later. From next month, the fund will disburse up to 30 per cent of the approved funding quantum upfront.

These initiatives are encouraging, especially for an industry which has long felt it was neglected by the Government, said Ms Wan.

However, farmers need more clarity on the overall vision for agriculture before they can benefit from the new slew of measures, she said.

"Adopting new technology may be daunting, and having to bid for new land every 20 years is an additional risk," she said.

Ms Wan's farm is one of 62 in Lim Chu Kang that will have to move out in 2019 to make way for new defence training grounds. AVA said last year that the first tranche of land sales for farms to relocate "will be launched from early 2017 due to the extensive land preparation works needed at the sites".

Last November, AVA said productivity will be a key consideration in deciding whether to extend a farm's lease.

Ms Wan said she feels productivity is important, but added that the authorities should also consider farmers who add value, as well as the educational and heritage value of farms to Singapore.

NParks taking steps to improve tree health
By Audrey Tan, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

The number of fallen trees has decreased significantly after the National Parks Board (NParks) introduced a tree management programme in 2001.

Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee told Parliament yesterday there were more than 800 cases of "tree failures" in Singapore last year, down from 3,000 in 2001.

"But we are deeply saddened each time such incidents cause injuries or loss of life," said Mr Lee during the debate on his ministry's budget.

Non-Constituency MP Dennis Tan had asked about the management of trees here. A 40m tembusu tree in the Singapore Botanic Gardens fell last month, killing one woman and injuring four others.



Mr Lee said NParks' comprehensive tree management programme includes a regime of tree inspections and pruning aligned with international standards.

Records are digitised so NParks staff can retrieve information easily and ensure trees under the agency are checked and maintained according to schedule.

"This system also enables NParks to zoom in on, and pre-emptively replace, storm-vulnerable species," said Mr Lee. Singapore has seven million trees, of which two million are along streets, streetscapes and parks.

With the weather becoming increasingly unpredictable, NParks has stepped up inspections and taken measures to improve the health of trees, Mr Lee said. These include employing pruning techniques that improve tree structure and balance.

"NParks is also developing modelling techniques to better understand the structural behaviour of trees under heavy rain and wind, and also in microclimatic conditions," Mr Lee said.

HDB help for vulnerable groups
By Rachel Au-Yong, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

As divorce rates climb, several MPs urged the Housing Board to let people apply for a flat even before their divorce is finalised, so that they have a roof over their heads after the marriage ends.

Divorcees, unwed mothers, divorced foreign spouses and elderly singles in rental flats were among the vulnerable groups for whom MPs sought more help.



Minister of State for National Development Koh Poh Koon said that while criteria are drawn up to ensure policy objectives, they are not applied in a blanket manner.

He cited how atypical families who did not fulfil some policies' criteria were helped. "The HDB takes a compassionate approach towards these cases in need."

He also gave updates on various HDB schemes. The Assistance for Second-Timers scheme, which gives priority to divorced or widowed parents with children under 16, has received 282 applicants as of end 2015.

Of these, 199 cases - or 71 per cent - went on to book a flat. Sixty-six did not proceed despite qualifying, he added, and 17 fell outside the quota.

On singles sharing public rental flats, Dr Koh noted that some do not get along and that the HDB had put out 180 rental flats with partitions for more privacy since 2015. Another 320 are under construction.

The Fresh Start Housing Scheme, to help families renting public flats own a home again, has received 68 applications from families who meet the basic criteria, he said. Of these, 13 qualify and four of them have applied for two-room flexi flats in last month's Build-To-Order exercise. The remaining applications are being processed.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Finance

MyInfo to be expanded to banks, more services
Singaporeans, PRs need not key in personal data on online forms or submit supporting documents
By Irene Tham, Tech Editor, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

By June, Singaporeans and permanent residents opening bank accounts with OCBC, UOB, DBS and Standard Chartered Bank will no longer need to key in information such as their NRIC number and address, or submit physical documents to verify such data.

Instead, they can give their consent for such information to be pulled digitally from a government-backed digital vault of their personal data - MyInfo - which was launched in May last year.

The pilot with the first four banks was announced by Second Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong during the debate on his ministry's budget in Parliament yesterday.

Mr Liang Eng Hwa (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) and Ms Foo Mee Har (West Coast GRC) had asked for updates on the Government's digital efforts.

Mr Wong, who is also Minister for National Development, added that by next year, more than 150 government digital services will be linked to MyInfo, which people can access by logging in with their SingPass.

"One inconvenience that you hear from people is that they need to submit the same data repeatedly to different government agencies, and provide supporting documents to verify their data," said Mr Wong.

Created by the Government Technology Agency (GovTech), MyInfo now pulls residents' data - such as name, NRIC number and registered address - from six public agencies.

These include the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, the Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore and the Urban Redevelopment Authority.

The data in the consolidated repository - which has 100,000 citizen and PR sign-ups so far - can be used to automatically fill up digital forms required by a handful of e-services provided by nine agencies now.

The services include applying for or renewing work permits for domestic helpers, and applying for public housing.

Mr Wong acknowledged the need to educate people on MyInfo's benefits to improve the sign-up rate.

"Ultimately, the person must also give consent for their data to be shared for privacy reasons," he said.

The Government is also exploring a one-stop platform to allow payments through mobile phones, potentially consolidating bills from public agencies, he added. No details are available.

Also in the pipeline are plans to improve government digital services for businesses. The percentage of businesses surveyed last year which were satisfied with government e-services was 68 per cent. In comparison, 77 per cent of citizens surveyed said they were very satisfied with such services.

"Many businesses need to go through the process of applying for grants and government licences," Mr Wong said.

"We will strive to make these transactions more convenient."

SMEs to get more chances to participate in govt projects
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will get more opportunities to take part in government projects, said Second Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong yesterday during the debate on the Ministry of Finance's budget.

Several MPs had expressed concerns that government projects are often too large for SMEs, and small firms without a track record might not get a chance to take part.

More than 80 per cent of government contracts - comprising about half the total value of government contracts - go to SMEs each year, said Mr Wong.

More than 40 per cent of all contracts was won by companies with revenue of less than $10 million. Of these, almost half were won by micro-enterprises with revenue of less than $1 million.

More will be done to support businesses through government procurement, the minister said.

First, government agencies are using crowdsourcing - partnering businesses, the community and individuals - to come up with innovative solutions, he noted. Second, government agencies will continue to ensure that tenders are appropriately sized to give SMEs a chance to compete for them, said Mr Wong.

About 90 per cent of tenders called by government agencies each year are below $100,000 in value, he said. There were more than 30,000 of such contracts last year. Only about 5 per cent of contracts are above $1 million.

For larger projects , the Government may call separate tenders for different parts, giving smaller companies an opportunity to participate, Mr Wong said.

For example, the construction of a single MRT line is often carried out in many parts. Separate tenders may be called for individual MRT stations or MRT stations with connecting tunnels.

The minister said the Government will also help SMEs without track records take part in government procurement. A programme called Partnerships for Capability Transformation through Government Lead Demand, or Gov-PACT, for instance, provides grants to SMEs and start-ups to undertake innovative projects initiated by public agencies.

The Government will also put in place measures to safeguard the basic employment rights of outsourced workers under government contracts, and build up procurement capabilities, he said.

"We have started the work to build up capabilities to enable government agencies to be smarter buyers and we will continue to do so," said Mr Wong.

"This includes understanding the industry and technology well, so that we can stay on top of what the suppliers are doing and ensure that tender specifications are well crafted. These capabilities can help to minimise the likelihood of being locked in to certain vendors, especially to incumbent suppliers."

Means test: Household income 'still best gauge'
By Danson Cheong, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Household income remains the best measure for assessing who qualifies for government social assistance schemes, said Senior Minister of State for Finance Indranee Rajah.

It is fair, and helps ensure aid reaches those who need more assistance, she told MPs who asked if the current method of means testing could be more flexible or targeted.

Currently, many social assistance programmes - such as the Community Health Assist Scheme (Chas) and ComCare schemes - use gross total monthly household income or monthly household income per capita as a criterion for eligibility.



During the debate on the Finance Ministry's budget yesterday, Mr Murali Pillai (Bukit Batok) asked if the Government could consider family income as a metric instead, so that schemes could be targeted at families at the relevant income level.

He cited the example of an elderly person living with his "middle-income" family, who might not be eligible for Chas - which helps those with a monthly household per capita income of less than $1,800.

On the other hand, a separate elderly person living apart from his "richer" family would qualify.

Ms Indranee replied that family relationships are "complex and fluid", and cannot be fully captured by data analytics systems used to determine eligibility. She also pointed out that the Government is not privy to family dynamics.



Mr Edwin Tong (Marine Parade GRC) asked if the ministry could refine the current eligibility criteria, which also consider the annual value of a resident's home.

Some elderly residents living in private properties have no income and little savings, he noted, adding that a needy person living at a relative's private house or apartment on goodwill terms would also be ineligible for some social assistance schemes.

Ms Indranee said in response: "Our underlying principle is to provide support according to need, and those in private housing are generally better off than those in public housing."

Nominated MP Randolph Tan also questioned the efficacy of payouts such as GST Vouchers, which have broad coverage and might be "diffused in their impact".

Ms Indranee said Singapore has a "progressive social system where support is extended to all, but those with greater need received more".

She acknowledged, however, that no criterion for means testing is perfect, and each has trade-offs.

"To date, the household income remains the best available proxy for family support. But we will keep in mind good and practical ideas on how to improve on this," she said.

Singapore has strong fiscal safeguards in place: Indranee
By Chia Yan Min, Economics Correspondent, The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Singapore has a strong system of budgetary safeguards and does not need an independent watchdog to monitor government finances, said Senior Minister of State for Finance Indranee Rajah yesterday.

She was replying, at the debate on the Ministry of Finance's budget, to a suggestion by Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang (Aljunied GRC) that Singapore set up an independent Office for Budget Responsibility(OBR), similar to Britain's.

Mr Low said such an institution "will enhance public confidence" in government spending and could provide useful advice to the elected president in his role as the second key to the reserves.

Ms Indranee told Parliament: "In determining whether to adopt institutions similar to those elsewhere, it is also important to understand the context in which those institutions were established."

The OBR was set up in Britain in 2010, when a new coalition government had just taken over after the general election.

The new administration was burdened by a huge deficit inherited from the previous government. In addition, there was little confidence in government economic and fiscal planning, she added.

In Singapore, "our situation is very different. Our Government has a strong track record of sound finances", said Ms Indranee. "While many other countries are in a net debt position, we have consistently spent within our means and achieved a balanced budget in each successive term of government."

The Government has also consistently planned ahead, she noted. For instance, the Finance Minister said in his Budget speech this year that the Government is reviewing measures to raise revenue in order to meet growing long-term healthcare and infrastructure needs.

Singapore's Constitution also outlines a strong system of rules and safeguards to ensure government spending remains sustainable.

The Government is required to seek Parliament's approval for its expenditures during each year's Budget. In addition, the President may veto the Budget if he is of the opinion it is likely to draw on past reserves, said Ms Indranee. "This effectively instils discipline for the Government to achieve a balanced budget over each term of office."

The net result, she said, "is that markets have confidence in our system... This can also be seen from the fact that we are among the few countries today that continue to enjoy an AAA credit rating."

NMP Randolph Tan asked about potentially lower corporate income tax rates in the United States and the impact this will have on Singapore's competitiveness.

Singapore has to be mindful of income tax changes in other countries, Second Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong said in response.

Corporate income tax rates have been falling around the world and some countries have announced plans to further cut these rates.

Singapore's 17 per cent corporate income tax rate is still competitive internationally, he said. "We will continue to monitor the trends and ensure that our tax system remains competitive and pro-growth."

In addition, Singapore's competitiveness is not based on taxes alone.

"We compete on many other factors - our quality workforce, rule of law, good corporate governance and infrastructure," Mr Wong said.

Will GST be raised by end of 2020?
The Straits Times, 8 Mar 2017

Workers' Party chief Low Thia Khiang (Aljunied GRC) yesterday asked Second Finance Minister Lawrence Wong whether GST will be raised. Here is an extract of the exchange.

Mr Low: Will the Government raise GST before the end of this decade? Does the minister agree that GST vouchers do not fully offset the amount of GST paid by lower-income households?





Mr Wong: As the Finance Minister said, we are studying all revenue options. Let's not jump to the conclusion of which particular tax is going to be increased or when. The point is that we are preparing ahead, and we're studying and keeping our options open at this time. GST is a progressive tax, the way we have designed it. It's not a question of whether its offsets are sufficient to cover everything that the low income has to pay - but it's the overall progressivity of the system. And the way we have designed the GST with a permanent voucher is to make it a progressive consumption tax.

We have had many debates in this House about this particular design feature of our GST system. More fundamentally, on this issue we have to ask ourselves, and I think, ask Mr Low, these two questions.

First, despite our best efforts to be prudent in spending, do we agree that our long-term expenditures are going to go up, particularly in areas like healthcare with a population that is ageing rapidly? And with huge infrastructure requirements that we do need to put in place to prevent our basic infrastructure from deteriorating and decaying, do we agree that these long-term expenditures are going to go up?

Second, if we agree that long- term expenditures are going to go up, is it not proper and responsible and prudent for the Government to start thinking ahead of what these expenditure needs are, and preparing for all options and studying the revenue options that we need to prepare for this eventuality?


Mr Low: Are there other forms of revenue that we can look at, for instance, revenue from land sales which my colleague spoke of during the Budget debate?

Mr Wong: I believe the Finance Minister had explained that land sales revenues go into our past reserves. So unless the Workers' Party would like the Government to use past reserves, then this option is not going to be made available.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Manpower







More help for PMETs, retrenched workers
PMETs can join companies on training stints, Govt will pay monthly allowance of up to $4k
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

More help is on the way for workers who get laid off or struggle to carve out new careers for themselves in an uncertain economy.

Professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs), for example, will be able to join companies on training attachments without having to be on their payroll. The Government will chip in with a training allowance of up to $4,000 a month for them.

Rank-and-file workers will receive allowances to try out new jobs for up to three months before they decide if these are suitable for them.

The Government has also made special efforts to help the vulnerable segment of PMETs aged 40 and above. There will be higher salary subsidies for employers who hire people from this group or those who have been unemployed for one year or more.

These were among a series of measures to help workers announced yesterday by Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say when Parliament debated his ministry's budget.



The biggest rise in subsidy was for the Professional Conversion Programme that helps PMETs switch sectors and jobs. The Government will continue to subsidise 70 per cent of a worker's salary under this scheme, but has doubled the cap from $2,000 to $4,000 a month. This will encourage employers to hire PMETs seeking to switch careers at higher salaries.

In another incentive to hire PMETs aged 40 and above who have been unemployed for more than a year, employers will be offered higher wage subsidies under the Career Support Programme for 18 months, up from 12 months.

To make it easier for smaller firms to join this programme, the minimum salary of eligible workers will be lowered from $4,000 to $3,600 per month for them.

In an unprecedented move, the Government will engage two foreign employment agencies - which have worked with governments in Britain and Australia - to help PMETs find jobs. "They were selected because of their business focus on active job seekers - these are the workers who are actively looking for jobs - rather than passive job seekers where the jobs were looking for the workers," Mr Lim said.

The workers must take responsibility for their careers, too, instead of having a sense of entitlement. "We can only help those who want to help themselves," said Mr Lim.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has formed a task force to study how freelancers can be given more protection.

Mr Lim also hit out at firms that continue to prefer foreigners over Singaporeans. The number of companies on MOM's watch list has swelled to 250 from 100 a year ago. "About 50 of them have not been receptive or cooperative," he said. These companies will not be allowed to hire any more foreigners until they improve, he said.

Besides helping workers with jobs, Mr Lim announced that the Central Provident Fund Board is reviewing its investment schemes so that Singaporeans can save enough for retirement. In Parliament yesterday, Ministers of State Teo Ser Luck and Sam Tan also spelt out the ministry's plans to do more to protect foreign workers and improve the lot of low-wage workers.

The ministry's budget of $1.73 billion for this year was approved by the House after a 4 1/2-hour debate - the longest period allocated among all ministries. MOM also had to field the most questions from MPs in the Budget debate, reflecting rising worries over jobs.

Logistics sector first to tap Attach and Train scheme
Industry picked because it is growing, there is interest from PMET jobseekers: Swee Say
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

The logistics sector will be the first to see a new Attach and Train scheme in which workers can join companies for training attachments without the companies having to hire them.

The scheme, which is part of the broader Professional Conversion Programme aimed at helping professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) switch careers, will "convert PMETs ahead of job placement", said Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say.

Under the scheme, workers are put on attachments in sectors where growth prospects are high but companies are not hiring yet.

During the attachments, the workers will receive monthly training allowances from the Government amounting to between 50 per cent and 70 per cent of the pay relevant to the jobs they are being trained for, capped at $4,000. The employers they are attached to pay another 10 per cent of the salary.

The logistics sector was picked for the pilot run this year because it is growing and there is interest from PMET jobseekers, said Mr Lim.

When the Supply Chain and Logistics Academy (Scala) launched its career conversion programme last year, there were 250 applicants vying for 80 places, but there were only 43 jobs provided by firms.

"As a result, 37 of the (training) places were wasted," Mr Lim said.

Mr Patrick Tay (West Coast GRC), chairman of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Manpower, was worried that these trainees would be exploited.

He said: "I am concerned that they are not treated fairly and are being used as cheap labour."

Responding, Mr Lim said that the Manpower Ministry will monitor the scheme closely to ensure that employers do not abuse it. He also made it plain that the industry has to help the ministry select the candidates and find responsible companies to train the workers. "We are putting the obligation to hire (the workers after their training) on the industry partner," he said.

Logistics firm Yang Kee Logistics is open to tapping the scheme.

Said its chief executive, Mr Jos Raaymakers: "At the PMET level, the hiring will very much be dependent on winning new projects and vertical expansions."

Scala chairman Robert Yap said the scheme will allow firms to seize opportunities in the sector "without compromising their cash flow".

Mr Stanley Lim, chairman of the Singapore Logistics Association, said that the scheme can help companies ride out the slowdown.

"Due to business uncertainty and the economic slowdown, companies are more cautious in hiring," he said, adding that the scheme will allow companies to ensure that there are trained staff in the pipeline "at the right time as part of its forward planning for manpower".

Other industries being considered for the Attach and Train programme include the infocomm, healthcare and biologics sectors, which are projected to see growth in the future.

Additional reporting by Joanna Seow

Four key job schemes

PROFESSIONAL CONVERSION

• Employers who offer mid-level jobs to professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) who switch careers or jobs will get a 70 per cent salary subsidy capped at $4,000 a month, up from $2,000 a month.

• Those who hire PMETs aged 40 and older, or who have been jobless for at least six months, will get a 90 per cent salary subsidy capped at $6,000 a month, up from $4,000.


ATTACH AND TRAIN

• New scheme in which trainees get a monthly training allowance from the Government at 50 per cent to 70 per cent of the salary relevant to the jobs they are being trained for. Companies training them top up another 10 per cent.

• Pilot run in logistics sector this year.





WORK TRIAL

• Rank-and-file workers will get $7.50 an hour when they try out new jobs, with stints lasting up to three months - a cap of $3,600 for the trial period - up from two weeks and $600.

• After the trial, employers who hire workers who have been out of work for at least 12 months will get a 30 per cent salary subsidy for six months, capped at $600 a month.


CAREER SUPPORT

• Employers who hire PMETs aged 40 and older who have been unemployed for at least 12 months will get more salary subsidies over a longer period - first six months: 50 per cent subsidy capped at $3,500 a month, up from 40 per cent and $2,800; next six months: 30 per cent subsidy capped at $2,100 a month, up from 20 per cent and $1,400; last six months: 20 per cent subsidy capped at $1,400 a month - a new provision.

• Employers who hire jobless PMETs younger than 40 will get salary subsidies even if they were not laid off. Those who hire jobless PMETs in the 40- 49 age group will get the same subsidies as those who hire PMETs aged 50 and older.

250 firms on watch list for unfair employment practices
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

About 50 companies that were unfair to Singaporeans when hiring workers have been taken to task, Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say said yesterday.

More than 500 Employment Pass applications from these employers have been rejected by the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) or withdrawn by the companies, he said.

These firms are among the 250 on the Fair Consideration Framework watch list, which tracks firms not doing enough to hire and groom Singaporeans. The framework was introduced in 2014 to get companies to look for suitable Singaporeans before hiring foreign professionals.

Responding to four MPs who asked about the list during the debate on his ministry's budget, Mr Lim provided an update on the scheme's effectiveness to date.

At the end of last month, there were 250 companies - in industries ranging from information and communications technology to professional services - on the watch list, up from 100 at the start.

These companies get guidance over six months from the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices to improve their employment practices.

Some have responded positively by recruiting and grooming more local talent, said Mr Lim. Collectively, these firms have hired 800 more Singaporean professionals, managers and executives since being placed on the watch list.

Those that continue to improve can be progressively removed from the list, he added. As for the 50 or so uncooperative firms, he said: "We will continue to curtail their work pass privileges until they improve."



Mr Lim also shared plans to develop more progressive employers.

The Human Capital Partnership programme was launched last month - with 74 employers who employ about 100,000 Singaporeans - to recognise exemplary employers who invest in staff development.

MOM will now treat companies differently based on their employment practices, he said.

Human Capital Partnership partners will be given "fast lane" access to development schemes and services such as SkillsFuture, as well as a dedicated hotline to MOM, while the majority who are fair employers will be in the "normal lane". Those on the watch list for unfair HR practices will be in the "slow lane", and subject to additional scrutiny when it comes to work pass applications.

While foreign manpower "is and will always be an integral part" of Singapore's workforce, employers must give fair consideration to recruiting and developing local manpower, Mr Lim stressed.

There are about 1.2 million foreign workers, excluding foreign domestic workers, he said. About 40 per cent of these foreign workers take on labour-intensive jobs few locals want, in sectors such as construction. And while about 45 per cent of them do jobs that locals will opt for, "we do not have enough locals to do these jobs", he said, citing the shortage of Singaporean integrated circuit design engineers.

The remaining 15 per cent of foreigners are in global headquarters. He said this is a boon for locals: There are about seven locals for every three foreigners in this segment.

"On the whole, most of the foreigners working in Singapore do complement our local workforce rather than substitute our locals," said Mr Lim.

The persistent view that "foreigners are here to take away our jobs" is due to employers in some segments not giving fair consideration to the recruitment and development of local manpower, he added.

New group to study issues that freelance workers face
MOM taking concerns seriously as pool of such workers is set to grow in the future economy: Lim Swee Say
By Joanna Seow, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

Greater protection for freelance workers is on the cards, with the setting up of a tripartite group to study the issues they often face.

The move follows the findings of a pioneering survey the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) did on the 200,000 or so freelancers in Singapore. Their No. 1 worry is whether they can find enough work, said Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say when he announced the group of government officials, union leaders and business officials.

Another is the lack of income security, which is made worse when they fall ill or go for training.

Other concerns are whether their clients will pay them on time and in full, and if they can save enough to buy a home and for retirement.

Mr Lim said his ministry is taking the concerns seriously because the pool of freelancers will "grow in our future economy, in tandem with the growth of the platform economy".

Primary freelancers, however, have remained at around 8 to 10 per cent of employed residents over the past decade. These are people who freelance as their main job.

Most freelancers, or 81 per cent, choose to work this way. Many are in traditional jobs such as taxi drivers, real estate agents, insurance agents and private tutors. There are over 10,000 in each of these.

More than 20,000 freelancers are in the gig economy - those who use online platforms to link up with and offer services to people.

It includes about 10,500 private- hire car drivers with Uber and Grab and about 10,000 other gig freelancers such as graphic designers, photographers and deliverymen.

At least seven MPs want the Government to give more help to freelancers and gig workers.

Several suggested ways to help them get better medical benefits.

Mr Ong Teng Koon (Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC) suggested letting employees pay to continue their coverage after leaving an employer.

Mr Chen Show Mao (Aljunied GRC) called for more risk-pooling initiatives to offer protection if they are injured at work. Ms Foo Mee Har (West Coast GRC) suggested a marketplace for pooled medical coverage for gig workers. She also called for rules on contributions to the Central Provident Fund by both the clients and freelancers.

Mr Lim also gave details of other measures to improve employment protection for workers.

From April 1, workers can tap the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) for mediation on salary-related disputes, and head to the Employment Claims Tribunal if mediation is unsuccessful.

Local workers can approach TADM at the Devan Nair Institute for Employment and Employability in Jurong, while work pass holders can go to the MOM Services Centre in Bendemeer.

From April 1, TADM will also give local low-wage workers financial aid from its Short-Term Relief Fund, financed by MOM. It is for those who cannot recover unpaid salaries because their bosses do not have money or have closed shop. The help will be means-tested and likely for workers in the bottom 20 per cent.

TADM will work with other organisations to link people to services such as legal clinics, employment help or social and emotional support, and the scope of its services will be broadened progressively.

The ministry is also launching new tripartite standards for employers to follow voluntarily.

These could include standards for flexible work arrangements or sector-specific work arrangements. Companies that agree to adopt them will be listed online on the Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices website and Jobs Bank.

The first series of tripartite standards will be launched by the end of the year, said Mr Lim.

Salary base for local workers to go up
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

From July this year, the minimum salary firms must pay their local workers each month if they want to hire foreign workers will go up.

The amount a resident worker must earn to count as a full-time worker will rise from $1,000 now to $1,100 in July, and $1,200 from July next year, Minister of State for Manpower Sam Tan said.

Sustainable wage increases are one way to lift the lot of low-wage workers, Mr Tan said at the debate on the Ministry of Manpower's (MOM) budget, as he detailed changes to the salary threshold.

The number of foreign workers a company can hire is tied to its number of full-time local workers, under a quota system known as the Dependency Ratio Ceiling (DRC). The DRC of 60 per cent in the manufacturing sector, for instance, means an employer can hire up to 1.5 foreign workers for every full-time local worker.

This salary threshold is regularly reviewed to stay in line with income trends, said Mr Tan. "If not, it means that we are gradually loosening our foreign worker controls simply due to rising nominal wages," he added.

The figure was last reviewed in 2013, when it went up from $850 to $1,000. Then, the income of workers at the 10th percentile was $1,200. This rose to $1,300 in 2015. Given rising income levels, the ministry has decided to adopt the new salary threshold.

"If we do not update the salary threshold now, it will mean having to make an even larger increase in future," Mr Tan said.

Low-wage workers are being helped by supplementing their incomes and retirement savings, through the progressive wage model, and stepping up "best sourcing" efforts, which encourage service buyers to award contracts based not just on price.

An updated Tripartite Advisory on Best Sourcing Practices was released yesterday. MOM is also working with other agencies to review further measures against contractors that fail to safeguard basic employment rights of outsourced workers under government contracts. More details will be announced at a later date.

Mr Tan noted that measures are also in place to ensure vulnerable workers, such as the elderly and injured, are looked after. The re-employment age will be raised to 67 from July this year, so that a growing pool of older workers can contribute as long as they are able to.

A Return to Work programme - which will give personalised help to injured workers and their companies - will be introduced this year.

Coordinators will help employers make adjustments to workplaces and jobs to facilitate the rehabilitation of injured workers. This will be an effort by the Government, employers and unions, he added.

Job woes: New office to help foreign workers
By Danson Cheong, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

Worker advocacy group Migrant Workers' Centre (MWC) will set up an office with the Tripartite Alliance for Dispute Management (TADM) to help foreign workers facing job-related issues, Minister of State for Manpower Teo Ser Luck said yesterday.

The new office will be located with the TADM's upcoming centre at the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) Services Centre in Bendemeer Road, and bolster the group's two existing centres in Serangoon and Geylang.

Mr Teo announced this in Parliament during the debate on his ministry's budget, as he highlighted avenues for foreign workers to get assistance if they face employment issues.

The TADM is a dispute resolution centre that helps resolve issues such as payment disputes between employees and their employers.

The MWC said it hopes to time the launch of its new office with TADM's opening next month.

Mr Teo said the MOM will help see through the valid claims of foreign workers whose salaries have not been paid, and let them change employers and stay on in Singapore to work even if their work passes have been terminated by their existing employers.

"Where employers wilfully refuse to comply with the law to pay the salaries due to their workers, MOM will take such employers to task," said Mr Teo.

Nominated MP Kok Heng Leun had asked the Government to consider reviewing its policy requiring workers to be repatriated once their work permits have been terminated - which often happens during disputes with employers.

But beyond the punitive action against employers and assistance provided to workers, Mr Teo said it was also important that foreign workers be able to return to "clean and safe accommodation after a hard day's work".

Giving an update on the state of dormitories here, he said 48 out of the 50 large dormitories - each housing 1,000 or more workers - have been licensed under the Foreign Employee Dormitories Act so far. The Act came into force in January last year and requires dormitories to adhere to stricter rules.

Over 70 per cent of factory- converted dormitories inspected have also been found to meet additional standards, which came into force in January this year.

These standards require them to put in place facilities such as personal lockers for workers, establish a mechanism for workers to give feedback on living conditions, and install a Wi-Fi network.

"Migrant workers come here to earn a living for their families. We'll continue to work with the employers, employment agencies, NGOs (non-governmental organisations)... to ensure that these foreign workers can work safely and be treated fairly during their stay in Singapore," said Mr Teo.

CPF Life escalating plan available from January 2018
By Lorna Tan, Invest Editor/Senior Correspondent, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

Central Provident Fund (CPF) members will be able to opt to receive escalating payouts under the CPF Life national annuity scheme from January next year.

Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say outlined the timing for the changes to the scheme in Parliament yesterday.

The option of getting payouts that grow 2 per cent larger each year for life was unveiled last year to address the concerns of some members about rising living costs.

The other two CPF Life payout options - Standard and Basic - pay fixed monthly amounts for life. CPF members who are already on these two plans will have one year from January next year to switch to the new plan if they want to.

CPF Advisory Panel member Christopher Tan, who is the chief executive of financial advisory firm Providend, said CPF members choosing the escalating plan should be prepared for a lower monthly payout at the start. This is because payouts would be about 20 per cent lower compared with those under the fixed-payment Standard plan.

"So who should choose the plan? A member who is concerned with the rising cost of living and is able to cope with a lower starting payout," he said.

Financial experts said those wanting higher initial payouts under the new escalating plan can either top up their CPF Life premiums or delay the payout starting age up to the age of 70.



On the review of the CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS), Mr Lim said there is "nothing wrong" with the scheme. However, it may not be the right scheme for those who lack the time and knowledge to manage their investments.

"They could be better off leaving their CPF money to earn risk-free CPF interest rates," he said.

Ms Foo Mee Har (West Coast GRC) noted that $24 billion has already been invested through the CPFIS. While 84 per cent of CPFIS- Ordinary Account investors did not achieve returns above the risk-free 2.5 per cent interest rate offered by the Ordinary Account, a substantial number suffered losses, she said.

To help members, plans are afoot to introduce a self-assessment tool to help them determine for themselves if CPFIS is suitable, as well as to lower the cap on the sales charge to discourage intermediaries from actively selling products.

"This is because investment churning could erode investment returns," said Mr Lim.

In addition, a review of asset classes offered under CPFIS will be held to see if they are appropriate for growing retirement savings.

"This is to encourage members to invest for the long term and provide them with a diversified portfolio," Mr Lim said, adding that more details will be announced later this year.

Those who prefer a simpler investment option can wait for the new CPF Lifetime Retirement Investment Scheme, which will feature low fees, offer simple investment choices, and be passively managed investments.

After a successful pilot exercise last year, a new CPF Retirement Planning Service will be offered to all CPF members who turn 54 this year. These one-on-one sessions aim to help members understand the CPF schemes and the options available to them.

Mr Lim estimated that 20,000 members who turn 54 this year will be invited for these sessions.

Meanwhile, CPF members have benefited from recent enhancements, through making CPF savings transfers to their spouses, and cash top-ups to their own and their family members' accounts. In fact, 49,000 members (up 27 per cent from 2015) received cash top-ups of $860 million in total last year.

Last year, about 900 CPF Life members took up the option of deferring the starting age of their payouts, which means they will receive higher payouts later.

"The Government has and will continue to strengthen our CPF system to help members improve their retirement adequacy," Mr Lim said.

"We hope that members will make good use of options available to better meet their retirement needs as well as that of their loved ones."

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Communications and Information







Going all out to help more SMEs go digital
Govt will provide customised aid under new scheme to help firms stay in business amid disruptive tech: Yaacob
By Irene Tham, Tech Editor, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

The Government is committed to getting its hands dirty to help more small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) transform digitally to stay in business amid disruptive technological innovations.

The Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA), the government agency leading the charge, will play sector "chief information officer" to SMEs, providing customised help from funding and consultancy to approving tech products to participating in joint pilots. This will be available under a new scheme dubbed SMEs Go Digital Programme, targeted at the 200,000 SMEs here.

During the debate on his ministry's budget yesterday, Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim said: "It will help raise SMEs' overall level of digital-readiness by giving them step-by-step advice on the technologies to use at each stage of their digital journey."

The kitty is $80 million over four years from this April under this scheme, first announced two weeks ago by Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat.



SMEs Go Digital aims to defray up to 70 per cent of the cost of technology purchases, capped at $300,000 per SME. It will replace the seven-year-old iSprint scheme, which provided similar subsidies and basic tech advice, benefiting some 8,000 SMEs.

SMEs Go Digital aims to be more comprehensive than iSprint by also helping SMEs with more advanced needs such as cyber security, data analytics and artificial intelligence, through a new SME Digital Tech Hub to be set up by September.

In response to Dr Yaacob's announcement, nominated MP Thomas Chua, who is president of the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, voiced concern about the prospect of disparate technologies being implemented by different firms.

Specifically, supply chains that connect buyers and sellers must be inter-operable. "Applying a standardised system for the industry is like learning a common language to facilitate communication... If not, the transfer of large masses of data could cause system errors," said Mr Chua.

To this, Dr Yaacob said IMDA will adopt a sectorial approach to ensure systems talk to one another and to accelerate the pace of transformation, especially for the deployment of more sophisticated systems.

Specifically, IMDA will partner influential companies to pilot sector-specific solutions that have the potential to scale up. It will start with sectors such as retail, food services, logistics and cleaning.

For instance, IMDA has partnered retail store Robinsons to integrate some 200 SME suppliers on a common e-procurement platform for better sales planning and inventory management.

IMDA has also partnered StarHub to target some 1,000 SMEs in the food and beverage business, offering them a comprehensive automation package including broadband services, and retail analytics, digital ordering and payment systems. StarHub is working with the Tampines Merchant Association on this.

Recognising that SMEs' digital needs vary widely across and within sectors, Dr Yaacob said his ministry is open to feedback to fine-tune the SMEs Go Digital scheme.

Broadcast laws to be updated this year
Move ensures overseas content is in line with local values; addresses concerns over 'fake news': Yaacob
By Chong Zi Liang, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

Singapore will update its laws to ensure that overseas content - which has become more readily available - is in line with local values.

Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim yesterday said the Broadcasting Act will be changed later this year, and details will be announced soon.

Dr Yaacob said the amendments are necessary as technology has enabled Singaporeans to access a wide variety of content online.

"When overseas content providers are directly targeting Singaporeans, we need to ensure that their content is in line with our community values, including the need to uphold racial and religious harmony," he added.

During the debate on his ministry's budget, several MPs raised concerns about the spread of false information, or "fake news".

Ms Sun Xueling (Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC) noted that false information was said to have shaped voter behaviour in last year's Brexit vote and United States presidential elections, and countries like Germany are looking at laws to tackle the problem.

Mr Ong Teng Koon (Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC) stressed the danger of fake news straining religious and ethnic fault lines in Singapore's diverse society.

But he also cautioned that over-regulation would harm Singapore's image as an open society. "A totally draconian approach is unlikely to work," he said.

Dr Yaacob said the update to broadcasting laws will address such concerns.

"The Internet is vast and open, but if an entity reports news about Singapore regularly to inform Singaporeans on matters of public interest, we expect them to do so responsibly," he said.

He also pointed out that tech giants such as Facebook and Google have recognised that a certain degree of control is necessary.

For instance, Google has prohibited advertisements on sites with deliberate misinformation, while Facebook is mobilising users to call out misinformation in their news feeds.

The amendments will cover all broadcast content, including entertainment and news reporting.

Dr Yaacob said the Government is studying the proposed changes very closely, to avoid adding undue burden to businesses.

But a review of laws and regulations is just one aspect of dealing with misinformation, he said.

The public also plays a crucial role in being discerning when accessing information, he added.

"To this end, we will continue to promote information and media literacy to all Singaporeans, particularly the young and those who may be vulnerable."

During the debate, Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) suggested that Parliament sittings be streamed live online. This would provide a source of reliable information to better inform the public.

In response, Minister of State for Communications and Information Chee Hong Tat said videos of all parliamentary speeches are uploaded online the day after the sitting. The videos are also kept online for six months, he added.

New scheme to develop cyber security professionals
By Irene Tham, Tech Editor, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

The Government will launch a Cybersecurity Professional Scheme in July to attract cyber security experts to the public sector, and to develop and retain them.

Centrally managed by the Cyber Security Agency (CSA), the national agency overseeing Singapore's cyber security efforts, the new scheme is part of plans to double the existing pool of cyber security professionals in the public sector to 600 over the next few years.

"The scheme will develop a core of cyber security specialists to be deployed across agencies to support Singapore's cyber defences," said Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim during the debate on his ministry's budget yesterday.

Mr Zaqy Mohamad (Chua Chu Kang GRC) had asked what the Ministry of Communications and Information plans to do to increase its cyber security capabilities and strengthen the cyber security industry here.



Dr Yaacob said officers recruited under the new scheme can look forward to a cyber security career in the public sector with postings to critical sectors and different public agencies.

It will focus on developing capabilities in areas such as cyber forensics, vulnerability assessment, and security governance and readiness.

"Protecting Singapore's cyberspace and critical information infrastructure remains a core mandate of CSA," he said.

The upcoming scheme will complement existing IT and security manpower training efforts, such as the Defence Ministry's plans to equip national servicemen with cyber security skills.

Mr Saktiandi Supaat (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC) asked how the employability of tech personnel can be improved.

In response, Dr Yaacob pointed to the TechSkills Accelerator (TeSA), launched last April. He said it has since trained 10,000 professionals in new tech skills to prepare them for the digital economy.

There are some 15 companies - including data analytics software firm SAS Institute, cyber security consultancy firm Deloitte & Touche Enterprise Risk Services and telco Singtel - under TeSA's company-led training programme.

"Going forward, we will continually expand TeSA's range of training partners and courses," said Dr Yaacob, adding that the company-led training programmes continue to see high placement rates.

Mr Zaqy asked about opportunities available for those above the age of 50 under TeSA.

Dr Yaacob replied: "IMDA (Info-communications Media Development Authority) is prepared to consider all professionals who may want to make that transition (to the technology sector)... The opportunities are in cyber security and data analytics, but this is something (about which) the individual will have to make the choice."

Revamping libraries to be vibrant places of learning
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 7 Mar 2017

Four newly renovated libraries will reopen this year in Sengkang, Bukit Panjang, Tampines and Bedok, with facilities such as a workspace with 3D printers and a storytelling room for children.

Adults will also be encouraged to read more as well as more widely, following a national survey that found only one in five adults reads books more than once a week.

Yesterday, Minister for Communications and Information Yaacob Ibrahim fleshed out these two broad thrusts of his ministry's plans this year to promote reading and sustain a vibrant reading culture.

He said during the debate on the Ministry of Communications and Information's budget: "Our libraries are places for learning no matter what stage we are in life.

"But libraries are also community places for our people to learn from each other, to come together and share their knowledge and experiences."

He said libraries will be redesigned to bring people together and help them learn from one another.

The Sengkang Public Library, located in the Compass One mall, will open on March 18. It will have an area with flexible seating that caters to those between the ages of 10 and 14.

There will also be interactive digital displays for people to browse recommended digital books and download them via the National Library Board's mobile app.

Bukit Panjang Public Library in Bukit Panjang Plaza will reopen in the third quarter of this year with double the floor space it had before. It will have a storytelling room, with sound effects and lights to bring stories alive for children.

The Tampines Regional Library will have "a space for makers" with 3D printers and collaborative work spaces.

As for the Bedok Public Library, it will have a dedicated area for seniors that includes large-print books that are easier to read.

Dr Yaacob also gave details of the first National Reading Habits Study conducted from May to September last year, in which 3,515 adults were interviewed at home.

It found that 69 per cent of people read at least one book a year, and libraries remain one of the top sources for books, with 56 per cent of those who read books borrowing them from libraries.

About 80 per cent read more than once a week, but they read more news articles than books. Also, about 68 per cent of adults read news more than once a week, compared with 19 per cent who read books more than once a week.

People said that what stops them from reading more is their tendency to spend more time on other activities. They also prefer watching TV or online videos.

Most do not find reading as stimulating as audio-visual content, said Dr Yaacob, adding: "The study shows that we can do more."

For example, the National Library Board will work with a group of small business owners called the Bosses Network, to run a business acumen series in Chinese.

The series will have established business owners sharing their knowledge and favourite reads.

The move to form partnerships and get adults to read more builds on the National Reading Movement launched last year. The five-year campaign encourages adults to read, and also urges more people to read in their mother tongues.

More than 380 companies encourage their staff to read by running activities such as mass reading sessions, book swops and book review competitions, said Dr Yaacob.

He said: "I hope... more Singaporeans will remember never to stop reading and learning. Our libraries will continue to play key roles in helping us do that."

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Budget 2017 Committee of Supply Debate: MOH, MCCY, MOT, MEWR, MSF

March 11, 2017, 6:21 am

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$75.1 billion Budget passed; Budget debate breaks six-year record with 545 questions filed
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

The 2017 Budget debate ended yesterday with a record.

A total of 545 questions, or cuts in parliamentary parlance, were filed during the marathon debate - the most in six years.

It was also 9 per cent more than last year's 499 cuts, Leader of the House Grace Fu noted as she wrapped up the eight-day debate on the Government's financial plans for the year.

"This speaks to the scale of the challenges we face, and the dedication of the Members," she added.

Jobs, the economy and infrastructure topped MPs' concerns as the Budget was delivered amid an increasingly uncertain world economy affected by the rise of populism and protectionist sentiments.

Inevitably, the Manpower Ministry topped the list on total speech time for the cuts filed, followed closely by the Ministry of Trade and Industry. The National Development Ministry and Education Ministry were not far behind.

The order reflects the overriding issues of today - helping out-of-work Singaporeans find jobs as layoffs hit a seven-year high and job vacancies dipped last year, and being ready for tomorrow.

Said Ms Fu: "Preparing for the future economy does not only involve our businesses and workforce, it requires our young and our city to be resilient and future-ready."

Both she and Speaker of Parliament Halimah Yacob seemed struck by how MPs from both sides of the House championed the cause of the worker.

The two sides also stood united behind Singapore's foreign policy goals, prompting Madam Halimah, who has been Speaker for four years, to remark: "There was a noticeable convergence of views from both the Government and opposition when it came to protecting our sovereignty."

Both women observed how some MPs were visibly moved when relating the hardships of Singaporeans seeking work.

"Tears were shed, not once but three times," said Ms Fu, referring to how Manpower Minister Lim Swee Say struggled to compose himself as he described the challenges a single mother with brain tumour overcame to land a job.

But the sittings were not without levity, and many chuckled when Madam Halimah said: "If only Members could learn to do away with long preambles and go straight to the point raised in their questions and clarifications, they would not need to deliver their speeches at breakneck speed."

It appears to be an annual problem. Thanking the MPs, the Speaker added: "It is your contributions and understanding that have made this debate outstanding in many respects... although at times my deputies and I had to intervene to remind you of your allotted time.

"Very gently, most times."

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Health

Singaporeans to benefit from subsidised health screening
From Sept 1, those aged 40 and older can get tested for common conditions for $5 at most
By Salma Khalik, Senior Health Correspondent, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

In a move to detect medical problems early - and prevent bills from spiralling out of control later - the Government is launching a highly subsidised national health screening programme to test for up to five common conditions.

The effort is part of the larger narrative to raise health levels of Singaporeans through early intervention and healthier lifestyle choices - while keeping costs in check.

Sharing the initiatives that his ministry was putting in place, Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said in Parliament yesterday: "They will lead us towards good, affordable and sustainable healthcare in the long term."

One key move involves early detection of the major health problems that afflict Singaporeans. From Sept 1, all Singaporeans aged 40 and above can get tested for diabetes, cholesterol, blood pressure and cervical cancer, for $5 at most, at the 950 Community Health Assist Scheme (Chas) clinics across the island. Those older than 50 can also get tested for colorectal cancer at no extra cost. Without the subsidy, these tests would cost around $100.

Pioneers can get tested for free, while Chas card holders will pay $2. Younger Singaporeans, aged between 18 and 39, are also eligible for testing if they are at risk of diabetes.

Subsidised tests can be done every three years, and the rates cover both the screening and a consultation if required.

"We want to reduce the drop-off rate of someone who tested positive but does not follow up to see the doctor," said Minister of State for Health Chee Hong Tat.

Colorectal surgeon Dennis Koh said detecting cancer early makes a difference in the outcomes. He added: "Spending money now on prevention will result in spending less later on treatment."

This appeared to be in tune with the thinking of Mr Gan and his colleagues, who discussed the Ministry of Health's (MOH) budget of $10.7 billion for this year and gave an update on the Healthcare 2020 masterplan.

Pointing to the worrying finding that obesity rates among Singaporeans aged 18 to 39 doubled between 1992 and 2013 - from 4.2 per cent to 8.4 per cent - Mr Gan said the war against diabetes, and towards health, must start with the individual. "A healthy diet is half the battle won," he added.

The Health Promotion Board will spend $20 million over three years, starting on July 1, to get more food manufacturers to use healthier ingredients.

If a condition develops, early detection helps one to manage it better. To keep a lid on costs, the Government is encouraging the use of generic drugs in cases where they are as effective as branded ones.

While three more hospitals are on the way, Senior Minister of State for Health Amy Khor said the home and community care network is being strengthened to treat people where they live. MOH will increase day and home-care services by 40 per cent by 2020. About 900 more community care nurses will be added to the current 4,900.

Overall, MOH will need over 9,000 more employees over the next three years and is rolling out schemes - like sponsoring course fees - to attract Singaporeans to take up these jobs.

After eight days of debate, Parliament yesterday approved a $75.1 billion Budget aimed at preparing Singapore for a more challenging future, where key areas of focus include helping people adapt and grow, helping firms transform and using technology to improve lives.

Minimum legal age for smoking to be raised to 21
Making it harder for youth to light up
Raising legal smoking age to 21 will protect young people during more susceptible years
By Poon Chian Hui, Assistant News Editor, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

The minimum legal age for smoking will be raised from 18 to 21, to make it harder for young people to get hold of cigarettes at a time when they are more vulnerable to peer pressure and the addictive effects of nicotine.

The Health Ministry outlined several reasons for taking this step, including the fact that regular tobacco use is usually established between 18 and 21 years of age.

Singaporeans are also starting to smoke at a younger age. In 2013, the average age a smoker began lighting up was 16, compared with 17 in 2001, according to the National Health Surveillance Survey.

Tobacco use is linked to a host of health problems, from cancer to emphysema to heart disease. In 2015, six Singapore residents died prematurely each day from smoking-related diseases.



Singapore is not the first to introduce such a measure, as some parts of the United States and countries such as Sri Lanka have enforced a higher minimum smoking age of 21 too.

It also comes as the number of tobacco retail outlets in Singapore has fallen to a record low, and on the heels of a shisha ban that took full effect in August last year.

Currently, retailers who sell tobacco to those under 18 may be fined up to $5,000 for the first offence, and $10,000 for repeated breaches. Their licence may also be revoked by the Health Sciences Authority, which enforces tobacco control laws here.

Those below 18 caught using, buying or possessing tobacco products can be fined up to $300.

Supporting the move, Professor Chia Kee Seng, dean of the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health at the National University of Singapore, noted: "Tobacco companies are known to target youth in their marketing to get them addicted as early as possible. Youths are also more susceptible to nicotine dependency."

Several studies have found that adolescent brains are more vulnerable to the rewarding effects of nicotine, the addictive substance found in tobacco products.

Dr K. Thomas Abraham, chief executive of Sata CommHealth, said the latest measure will "effectively challenge perceptions of tobacco as a 'normal' product". "At 21, adolescents become young adults who are more mature, more rational and less impulsive," added Dr Abraham, an anti-smoking advocate.

The move also aligns with the stance of the World Health Organisation, which stated in a 2008 report that people who do not start smoking before 21 are unlikely to ever begin.

Two-thirds of underage smokers in Singapore obtain their tobacco from friends and schoolmates, according to the latest Student Health Surveys (2014-2016).

With the new rule, the number of legal buyers in an underage person's social circle is expected to be reduced, said the ministry.

Student Chrystine Wong, 23, who drew her first puff at 15 after a friend gave her a cigarette, agrees that raising the legal age would be beneficial.

"It gives you more time to think before you can buy your own pack of cigarettes," she said.

Yet Ms Wong, who stopped smoking two years ago, said she and her schoolmates were able to get cigarettes through their older siblings.

"If you really want to do it, there's no way anyone can stop you," she noted.

Mr Muhd Hafiz, 33, started smoking at 14 under the influence of his schoolmates and, by 18, was puffing 20 cigarettes a day. They would make modified photocopies of identity cards to dupe tobacco sellers.

The handyman, who quit smoking last year after signing up for the Health Promotion Board's I Quit programme, is unconvinced that the legal age matters that much.

Echoing Ms Wong, he said: "There is always a way for kids to get cigarettes - unless you ban them."

No profit margins on drugs sold in public hospitals: Gan
By Linette Lai, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Public healthcare institutions do not make a profit on the drugs they prescribe, said Health Minister Gan Kim Yong in Parliament yesterday.

"Our public healthcare institutions are not-for-profit organisations," he said. "While the drug prices include a margin, this is to offset overheads and operations costs... They are not profit margins.

"In fact, last year, we provided a total of $4.3 billion of funding to our public healthcare institutions to support their operations, to keep our healthcare costs low."

The issue was brought up by Mr Low Thia Khiang (Aljunied GRC), who said that some people still find medication expensive.

He asked for the profit margins of drugs sold in public hospitals, and questioned the effectiveness of measures taken to bring medication costs down, especially for those with chronic ailments.

"Based on feedback from residents, some Singaporeans still find the cost of medicine high," Mr Low said. "I believe this is partly due to doctors prescribing drugs for a long duration, or prescribing non-standard drugs."



Addressing the issue later, Mr Gan said the Agency for Care Effectiveness, which was set up to look for treatments with "good outcomes at affordable costs", will issue its first set of guidelines on drugs in May.

Minister of State for Health Lam Pin Min added that the agency will issue more guidelines in July on medications for Type 2 diabetes and how to manage pre-diabetes.

These will help patients and doctors make better choices on cost- effective medical treatment.

Dr Lam said the agency recently evaluated two classes of diabetes drugs. One was found to be "significantly more cost-effective".

The drug is now listed under the Medication Assistance Fund, and eligible patients can apply for financial support for it.

The fund helps people who need expensive non-standard drugs, said Mr Gan, adding that substantial subsidies are given for standard medication at public healthcare institutions.

9,000 more healthcare workers needed
By Linette Lai, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Around 9,000 more people are needed in public healthcare and community care over the next three years, as demand rises for healthcare services.

This is why the Health Ministry (MOH) is investing $24 million to get those making a mid-career switch on board.

"Growth in the healthcare sector will bring many good jobs - clinical and non-clinical, and at different levels - for Singaporeans,"Senior Minister of State for Health Amy Khor said yesterday during the debate on the ministry's Budget.

Over the next three years, this works out to around 2,700 more nurses, 4,500 more support staff and an additional 1,800 other professionals, managers, executives and technicians.

Mr Patrick Tay (West Coast GRC) said the healthcare sector is "poised to absorb many more workers", including those who lost jobs, or women returning to the workforce.

Dr Khor said a new overseas graduate scholarship will be launched for those who do not have nursing degrees but want to join the sector. They will pursue a two-year master's programme and serve as registered nurses after they graduate.

She said MOH expects to give out 20 scholarships each year, both to fresh graduates and to those who have work experience.

Funding for nursing professional conversion programmes will also be raised, to the extent that employers will need to pay only 10 per cent of the training cost, compared with up to 50 per cent currently. Employers will also get up to $16,000 for on-the-job training for each nurse who made a mid-career switch.

Funding will also go towards on-the-job training for support staff like basic care assistants - who free up nurses' time by performing simple tasks - as well as healthcare and therapy assistants. Employers will get $10,000 for on-the-job training for each person hired in these roles.

In response to Mr Low Thia Khiang (Aljunied GRC), who asked about the foreign-local ratios of doctors and nurses, Dr Khor said about 16 per cent of doctors and a third of nurses are foreign.

MOH is working to increase the local component, she said, adding: "Our priority is to build a strong local core, whether it's medical, nursing, allied health professionals or even healthcare support staff."

MOH to roll out diabetes control measures
Two treatment guides out in May; polyclinic programme to lower number of kidney failures
By Salma Khalik, Senior Health Correspondent, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

The Ministry of Health (MOH) will be pushing out better ways to prevent and control diabetes, as well as encourage healthier living and early screening, said Health Minister Gan Kim Yong.

He was replying to Mr Christopher De Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah GRC) and Mr Chen Show Mao (Aljunied GRC) who had asked about the progress of the ministry's "war on diabetes".

Mr Gan said the Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE), set up in 2015 to evaluate clinical and cost effectiveness of new treatments, will publish its first two treatment guides in May, and both deal with diabetes.

Giving details, Minister of State for Health Lam Pin Min said the guides are about medication for Type 2 diabetes, and a systematic way to manage pre-diabetes.

He added that ACE had evaluated two patented diabetic drugs and found one "significantly more cost-effective". MOH will subsidise the drug under the Medication Assistance Fund.

The ministry will also roll out a programme to all polyclinics to reduce the number of kidney failures among diabetics. This follows a successful pilot by the National University Hospital and the National Healthcare Group, which recruited almost 12,000 diabetics between 2011 and last year. Dr Lam said a third of the patients had improvements in their kidney function, while there was no further deterioration in over 60 per cent of patients.

One patient who benefited was taxi driver Ahmad Sahri, 65, who was diagnosed with diabetes in 2007. He also has high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Two years ago, a Woodlands Polyclinic doctor told him that there were problems with his kidneys and they were "not so good".

"I was worried," he said, as he knew kidney failure meant having to go on dialysis. He was already exercising fairly regularly.

The doctor put him on the programme and now his kidneys appear fine, much to his relief.

Every five hours here, one person loses the use of his kidneys and needs a transplant or dialysis. In 2015, more than 1,200 people started dialysis.

Recently, the biggest dialysis provider, the National Kidney Foundation, said it would run out of dialysis places by the end of this month.

From Sept 1, Singaporeans aged 40 and above can screen for diabetes and four other ailments for at most $5. Those aged 18 to 39 can do an online self-assessment. If results show that they are at high risk, they can get the $5 screening for diabetes, blood pressure and cholesterol levels at Chas clinics.

New moves to enhance community care for mental health
By Poon Chian Hui, Assistant News Editor, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Resources for mental health will be strengthened so people having difficulties can be identified early and supported.

For instance, half of Singapore's polyclinics are expected to have mental health clinics by 2021.

The Institute of Mental Health (IMH), Singapore's main psychiatric hospital, will also support more patients in the transition back home after discharge.

These are part of a five-year Community Mental Health Masterplan to be launched this year that will also cover training for front-line staff and boosting of community care.

Yesterday, Senior Minister of State Amy Khor told Parliament the Ministry of Health (MOH) will enhance community care by improving early identification, strengthening response, expanding mental health services in polyclinics, boosting integrated health and social care services, and broadening the reach of IMH's post-discharge care.

She was replying to MPs Fatimah Lateef (Marine Parade GRC), Tin Pei Ling (MacPherson SMC), NCMP Dennis Tan of the Workers' Party and Joan Pereira (Tanjong Pagar GRC), who asked about support for mental health.



Having mental health clinics in polyclinics will allow patients with dementia, depression, anxiety and insomnia to be cared for near their homes. People with chronic physical ailments may also be vulnerable to mental health conditions which could then be identified early, said an MOH spokesman.

Meanwhile, IMH's aftercare support will go to 3,000 more patients over the next five years, on top of the current 8,000, said Dr Khor. Staff follow up with the selected discharged patients, who usually have severe conditions, for at least 12 months to ensure they are well, and are going for medical appointments or taking medication as instructed.

Dr Khor said the number of community outreach teams will also go up from 18 to 50 by 2021.

Generally run by voluntary welfare organisations and charities, their main role is to educate the public on mental health and reach out to vulnerable people. The number of allied health community intervention teams will also grow from 14 to 18 by 2021. Comprising professionals such as counsellors, occupational therapists and psychologists, teams conduct home visits, assess and counsel people with mental health needs.

Such home visits have helped Mr Wee (not his real name), 67, who suffers from schizophrenia.

He tends to have delusions about neighbours wanting to harm him.

He had to quit his security guard job in 2000 and has been hospitalised in IMH thrice since 2006, for at least two months each time.

But his condition has improved since a social worker from Peace-Connect began visiting him weekly from September 2015.

"It's important that I can speak about my problems to him," said Mr Wee, who is unemployed and lives alone. "I feel more confident and less fearful."

To help coordinate care better, the Agency for Integrated Care will act as a "first responder" to mental health needs identified in the community, said Dr Khor.

"By 2021, we target to respond to and support about 1,000 cases a year, up from the current 500."

Also on the cards is training of the front-line staff of selected government and social service agencies to spot and respond to individuals with mental health needs.

These include government agencies such as the Housing Board and the National Environment Agency, as well as the police, she said.

Madam Rosemary Lim, a grassroots volunteer in MacPherson, said such knowledge may spur the public to be more understanding.

"When people are more aware, they can be more tolerant and more willing to help out," said the 60-year-old, who is involved in active ageing efforts.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth






New $50m matching grant for elite athletes
By May Chen, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

The Government has pledged an additional $50 million over the next five years for high performance sport, but as much as another $100 million could separately be channelled into backing elite athletes, if a new matching grant is maximised successfully.

This comes after a new One Team Singapore matching grant was announced yesterday, an initiative that will see the Government match dollar-for-dollar donations - up to $50 million over the next five years - in a bid to grow the resource pool that the nation's sporting best can draw from.

The initiatives come after a historic year for Singapore sport.

Swimmer Joseph Schooling won the Republic's first Olympic gold in Rio de Janeiro, while para-swimmers Yip Pin Xiu (two golds) and Theresa Goh (one bronze) also reached the Paralympic podium.

It is hoped that the matching grant will prompt the corporate sector and the public to contribute to the success of national athletes.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu announced the grant yesterday in Parliament, while speaking about enhancements to the High Performance Sports (HPS) system.

The HPS' $50 million - first announced by Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat during the Budget - will be disbursed on top of the existing budget for the HPS system, bringing expenditure to about $70 million a year.

The HPS, which supports both able-bodied athletes as well as those with disabilities, covers components such as athletes' allowances, annual grants to national sports associations, as well as sports medicine and sports science support.

The new injection is expected to put a targeted focus on building support capability in areas like coaching and technical know-how.

It will also be used to give athletes more opportunities to train and compete in a more conducive environment.

"Podium success at world championships and the Olympics requires a focused and sustained effort at all levels," said Ms Fu.

"A talented and dedicated athlete is a necessary starting point. To groom that athlete into a world champion, we need great coaches supported by deep sports science and sports medicine capabilities."

She was responding to questions from Mr Darryl David (Ang Mo Kio GRC) and Dr Lim Wee Kiak (Sembawang GRC) about government efforts to further enhance the support system for top athletes.

It is understood that under this additional funding, resources will also be set aside for athletes who aim to shine at major Games but do not come under the Sports Excellence (Spex) Scholarship, the country's elite sports support programme.

The new targeted funding could put athletes such as Olympians Justin Liu and Denise Lim in good stead as the sailors aim for a run at the 2020 Tokyo Games.

Despite qualifying for Rio in 2015, the pair, who did not meet the Singapore Sailing Federation's criteria for funding then and are not Spex scholarship recipients, got there largely on their own dime.

They forked out an estimated $100,000 to cover travel and training needs, even paying their coach's salary themselves.

Said Liu, who estimated that their 2020 campaign could cost $100,000 a year: "One of the biggest challenges in our Rio campaign was when we were trying to secure qualification.

"We fell through the cracks and struggled for funds. Hopefully, the additional funding will be beneficial for athletes like us."

In the works: More sporting spaces near residents' homes
By May Chen, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

For the last eight months, housewife Suzana Hamzah has begun each weekday with a good sweat, exercising at a new multi-purpose lawn court a few minutes' walk from her home in Boon Lay Avenue.

What began as a personal pledge to get fitter with two friends has now grown to workouts with a group of about 40 who live in the area. They spend about an hour every weekday morning following Ms Suzana's lead in exercises such as jumping jacks, planks and yoga poses.

The facility where they work out is part of a newly completed Sports-In-Precinct (SIP) project, which also includes a street soccer court and jogging track. Without easy access to such a space, the 47-year-old reckons that she and her band of housewives would not be as committed to physical activity.

"It's really convenient and it's also sheltered, so not even the rain will get in the way of us exercising," said Ms Suzana, who noted the nearest alternative venue would be the park at Jurong Lake, about 3km away.

Building on such SIP initiatives, $50 million will be set aside for 20 such projects across the island, expected to be completed by 2020.

The SIP drive began in 2014 to construct more sporting spaces in local communities, particularly in places farther from town sports centres.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu announced this yesterday during the debate on her ministry's budget.

She said: "We will expand the roll-out of the SIP programme to additional precincts to ensure a good geographical spread and create more sporting spaces near residents' homes."

Parliamentary Secretary Baey Yam Keng noted that the additions will now include precincts that are not eligible for the Housing Board's Neighbourhood Renewal Programme. He was responding to questions from Mr Melvin Yong (Tanjong Pagar GRC) on whether more new spaces would be provided for community use.

A second SIP project in Jurong Spring is expected to be completed this year, and there are also plans for another site in Taman Jurong.

Besides more investment in infrastructure, there will also be more programmes - in the form of five more ActiveSG academies and clubs - to encourage greater participation in sport. Academies and clubs for badminton, frisbee, floorball, hockey and martial arts will be introduced this year.

Said Ms Fu: "The programmes will cater to different competency levels and provide young adults with both recreational and competitive opportunities to remain active in sports even after leaving the school system."

There will also be Active Masters programmes catering to adults aged 40 and above. The activities under this initiative will include functional exercises and modified sports and fitness activities.

Three academies - for basketball, football and tennis - and one club, for athletics, were launched last year, followed by an Outdoor Adventure Club in January.

More disability-inclusive gyms in the pipeline
By Priscilla Goy, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Gyms with equipment for both the able-bodied and people with disabilities will be set up at government-run sports centres in Bedok, Jurong West, Tampines and Toa Payoh.

These disability-inclusive gyms at ActiveSG sports centres are expected to be ready by next year.

The move, announced by Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu in Parliament yesterday, is part of the Government's Disability Sports Master Plan, to encourage more people with disabilities to pick up sports.

Ms Fu was responding to Dr Lim Wee Kiak (Sembawang GRC), who noted that government support was strong for para-athletes like swimmer Yip Pin Xiu, who won two golds at the Paralympic Games last year.

Dr Lim, speaking during the debate on the ministry's budget, hoped non-competitive people will also get "the help and push needed to participate in sports and other cultural activities, to give persons with disabilities the opportunity to lead an active and enriching life".

ActiveSG runs only one disability-inclusive gym now. It is at the Enabling Village, a community space in Redhill where people with disabilities can shop, eat, access services and attend training.

News of the additional gyms was welcomed by telemarketer Vinayagan Mohan, 29, who has spina bifida and uses a wheelchair.

He said: "I've been looking for a gym to train and build my muscles. Exercising in gyms would help people with disabilities to maintain their physical strength, too."

People with special needs will also receive more attention at museums. Ms Fu said that staff, docents and volunteers will get more training this year on ways to engage them.

More than 100 museum staff members and docents have gone for introductory training, which will be extended to everyone.

Those who engage directly with special-needs visitors will attend in-depth workshops, said the National Heritage Board.

Ms Fu said: "With these developments, everyone can participate more fully in sports and the arts."

SG Cares to cultivate volunteerism here
To be launched later this year, nationwide movement is part of multiple efforts to encourage ground-up projects
By Priscilla Goy, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Step up to help a neighbour, or a cause. That is the call of SG Cares, a nationwide volunteerism movement to be officially launched in the second half of this year.

It aims to "harness the goodwill of Singaporeans, inspire them to step forward, and support them to help others in need", said Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu yesterday. The movement is part of her ministry's efforts to nurture a community of caring people in the coming year.

Its focus includes increasing volunteerism opportunities, coordinating partnerships, and building capabilities of volunteers and organisations through training.

It will be led by the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre (NVPC) and the National Council of Social Service, but is "not a government scheme", said Minister for Social and Family Development Tan Chuan-Jin on Wednesday.

"It is about giving and volunteering... and a lot of this is already taking place in the community. (SG Cares) provides an overall umbrella to encourage and support these efforts, to help and facilitate even more outreach," he added.



Ms Fu cited the work of Ms Siti Nurani Salim, founder of Project Goodwill Aid, during her speech. The group has visited more than 1,000 families in rental flats since 2013, distributing groceries and refurbishing their homes, for instance.

Said Ms Fu: "This is the spirit we hope to cultivate through SG Cares - communities self-organising to care for their members and inspiring others to do good.

"It is the members of each community who truly understand the needs of their neighbours and friends, who are best placed to help make Singapore a truly caring society."

Last year, 350 volunteers took part in Project Goodwill Aid's activities. Said Ms Siti Nurani, 35: "We still don't have enough volunteers. It'll be good if SG Cares can help us attract volunteers, and match people with time and interest to meet the social needs."

Ms Fu also gave updates on other initiatives to promote volunteerism during the debate on her ministry's budget. The inaugural Youth Corps Service Week will be held from tomorrow till next Saturday, to encourage the young to contribute to social and community causes.

It will comprise volunteering activities held islandwide.

Meanwhile, nearly 40 ground-up projects that build national identity or help the community have been supported by Our Singapore Fund, launched last year.

The projects have benefited more than 37,000 people.

Ms Fu also encouraged more companies to give back to society.

She said there are more than 470 members in NVPC's Company of Good programme, started last year to promote corporate giving.

The programme also has two new schemes, which will be introduced later this year.

One is the Champion of Good scheme, which recognises companies with best practices in corporate giving. The other is the Company of Good Fellowship, which aims to grow a community of corporate leaders and develop their capabilities in corporate giving through training and mentoring.

Said Ms Fu: "We need to look out for one another. We are as strong as the most vulnerable among us."

Blueprint for heritage sector being drawn up
Plan will include preservation of tangible and intangible assets; first edition to be out next year
By Melody Zaccheus, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

A comprehensive blueprint for the heritage sector is being developed to map out the national vision for the museum and heritage landscape.

It will examine how tangible and intangible heritage can be systematically documented and preserved.

The plan will also look at how to better protect the country's archaeological heritage through policy and legislative reviews, said Parliamentary Secretary for Culture, Community and Youth Baey Yam Keng.

The first edition of the plan will be published early next year, and will detail new strategies and initiatives for the next five years. It will be updated every five years.

The National Heritage Board (NHB) will engage heritage stakeholders and community partners.

It will also invite the public to share their views later this year, said Mr Baey yesterday during the debate on his ministry's budget.

Other aspects of the plan include making museums and cultural institutions more accessible.

The ongoing nationwide surveys on the country's tangible and intangible heritage, launched by NHB over the past two years, will be worked into the blueprint.

The plan also involves NHB supporting more ground-up projects, partnering more communities, and exploring ways to empower them to co-curate heritage content.

Such a blueprint is long overdue, said the heritage community, which hopes it will lead to concrete policies and laws to protect heritage.

On their wish list: standardised, structured and independent heritage impact assessments, coordination across ministries, and systematic public engagements.

Singapore Heritage Society president Chua Ai Lin said: "There needs to be a greater whole-of-government approach to heritage. In order to be meaningful and effective, the heritage plan has to include other agencies whose work also play a crucial role in deciding the fate of the country's heritage assets."

Dr Terence Chong, head of NalanDa-Sriwijaya Centre at the ISEAS- Yusof Ishak Institute, said the plan is a positive step towards formulating long-term heritage strategies.

His suggestions include making it compulsory for landowners or developers to notify NHB of proposals to redevelop sites of significant size, to allow for mandatory archaeological investigations.

Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu also updated the House about the Founders' Memorial, which will honour the nation's founding fathers.

She noted that a majority of Singaporeans engaged so far have picked Bay East Garden as the preferred site of the memorial as opposed to Fort Canning Park.

The wider public will get to weigh in from next week when a showcase is rolled out at Gardens by the Bay.

When it is ready, the Founders' Memorial will tell the extraordinary story of the Singapore spirit, she said. "The story doesn't end there. We will write the next chapters together."

SGSecure network to link religious groups
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

A new SGSecure Community Network will be established to connect all religious organisations in Singapore and help places of worship get ready in the event of a terrorist attack.

It is one of the upcoming national efforts to foster greater resilience and understanding among Singaporeans, said Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Grace Fu in Parliament yesterday.

The new network will complement the work of the Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circles, which promote racial and religious harmony at the constituency level, as well as strengthen the Government's partnership with religious organisations, she added.

"All religious organisations should be plugged into the SGSecure movement, so that they are well informed and can count on one another for help when the need arises," said Ms Fu during the debate on her ministry's budget.

"In the hours and days after a terrorist attack, we need respected community and religious leaders to convey messages of calm and solidarity to their congregations, and to the wider community."



Earlier this year, her ministry and the Home Team held two counter-terrorism seminars for religious and community organisations.

More than 500 leaders from about 180 organisations learnt from parties, such as the Roman Catholic Archdiocese, on how to develop crisis management plans and keep their followers safe. More of such seminars are in the works.

The seminar drove home the importance of being prepared to Al-Khair Mosque vice-chairman Abdul Wahab, 61. "We're still lacking awareness on the security aspect, and we have a lot to do to get not just our staff ready, but also our congregation," he said. "Now, nowhere is completely safe from attacks."

Yesterday, Ms Fu said plans are on the horizon to deepen religious understanding, too. Gaps in understanding about religious practices still persist, she pointed out, and irresponsible voices could use this to sow seeds of prejudice.

Her ministry will work with community organisations to clarify how religions are practised in a multiracial, multi-religious society, as well as address sensitive questions in a mutually respectful setting.

Such efforts to band together are crucial in today's uncertain global climate.

She said: "At a time when tensions are tearing at the fabric of other countries, the bonds and bridges we build in times of peace will enable us to stand together in a crisis."

Madrasahs to get $1.5 million in grants
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Singapore's six full-time madrasahs will receive an annual grant of up to $1.5 million to improve the quality of education in secular subjects, such as science and mathematics.

About $100,000 will be put up for an estimated 350 new awards, for students who shine in these subjects. The rest will go to the 127 teachers of secular subjects, as financial incentives or training grants.

The grant makes good on a pledge that Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made, in 2015, to give the teaching of these subjects in madrasahs a boost.

The awards for madrasah teachers and students were announced yesterday by Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim.

The government grant will be matched by the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), which is setting aside its own funds for religious education.

Muis will pour $1.1 million a year into incentives and training for the 112 teachers of religious subjects, and about $100,000 into awards for students who excel in subjects such as Islamic jurisprudence and theology.

"This partnership between the Government and the community will encourage our madrasah students and teachers to continue to improve themselves and be the best that they can be," said Dr Yaacob, at the debate on the budget for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth. Muis is a statutory board under its purview.

Yesterday, Muis' deputy chief executive, Dr Albakri Ahmad, told The Straits Times that the government grant will help madrasahs do even better at national exams.

Dr Yaacob said that 98 per cent of madrasah students who sat the PSLE were eligible for a secondary school course in either the madrasahs or national schools last year, up from 91 per cent in 2012. More qualified for the Express stream as well.

"These trends bode well for the future of our asatizah fraternity and Muslim institutions," he said.

Ms Rahayu Mahzam (Jurong GRC) wanted to know if there were plans to review the Administration of Muslim Law Act.

The minister said that draft proposals will be put up for public consultation on March 14. The amendments seek to reinforce Muslim institutions, enhance the management of Muslim assets and further strengthen Muslim families.

Dr Yaacob also gave updates on the new Madrasah Al-Arabiah campus in Toa Payoh.

It will be equipped with up-to-date information technology infrastructure and facilities, and is estimated to cost $17 million.

Muis has set aside $10 million for the new campus and the madrasah will raise the rest. Construction is expected to start next year.

Dr Yaacob also said that collections for the Mosque Building and Mendaki Fund (MBMF) have been healthy, despite a revision last June that saw Muslims paying $1 to $10 more in monthly contributions.

"The support for the changes to the MBMF is an affirmation of the affluence of our community and of our spirit of self-help," he said.

The 26th mosque under this fund - the Yusof Ishak Mosque in Woodlands - will be opened next month.

Dr Yaacob also responded to comments by Workers' Party MP Faisal Manap (Aljunied GRC) on wanting to see Malay-Muslims in all aspects of public life.

Mr Faisal said the move to reserve this year's presidential election for Malay candidates compromises meritocracy and added that some in the community feel that there is a lack of fair opportunity in seeing themselves represented in positions such as permanent secretary.

Dr Yaacob said that while the community hopes to see achievements in a range of fields, this will take time. "My colleagues and I believe that what we have done all this while will give us the excellence we want in our community," he said.

More help for Malay/Muslim PMETs in uncertain times
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Malay/Muslim professionals, managers, executives and technicians (PMETs) can soon turn to a new committee for help in weathering the headwinds of an uncertain economy. Its focus is to help this growing group retrain, and rebound from employment setbacks, said Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Yaacob Ibrahim.

The committee is chaired by Parliamentary Secretaries Faishal Ibrahim and Amrin Amin.

Dr Yaacob said more will be done to boost the community's take-up of national schemes like SkillsFuture. Out of the 126,000 Singaporeans who have used their SkillsFuture credits as of last December, only 8.4 per cent are Malays, he pointed out.

While Mendaki's training arm, Mendaki Sense, will boost efforts to provide good job opportunities, "at the same time, more must be done to make continual learning and training a social norm or a natural impulse of our community", he added.

The self-help group, which kickstarts its 35th anniversary celebrations tomorrow, has turned to technology to help in its efforts.

New plans are also on the cards for Mendaki's Future Ready Unit, which was formed in 2015. This year, it will launch a Future First programme to help Malay/Muslim students in Higher Nitec courses develop IT skills and competencies like critical thinking.

Dr Yaacob also touched on efforts to strengthen and safeguard families. PPIS Vista Sakinah, which supports Malay/Muslim couples remarrying and stepfamilies, is looking at further working with asatizah, or Islamic religious teachers, to engage such families.

He also spoke of changes in the Syariah Court, which administers Muslim family law relating to divorce and inheritance matters.

Two new presidents - Ustaz Muhammad Fazalee Jaafar and Ustazah Raihanah Halid, both on secondment from Muis - came on board last year, said Dr Yaacob. They are being mentored by senior president Mohamad Haji Rais and president Zainol Abeedin Hussin, who will both retire in June.

In the next two to three years, the Court will also have a new system to boost efficiency. This will include new e-services, like being able to make appointments online, and a new case-management system.

Health is wealth, and so are the arts
Quality of life encompasses not just staying healthy but enriching our lives through the arts as well
By Lydia Lim, Associate Opinion Editor, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Yesterday's debate was an apt way to end eight days of scrutiny by Parliament of the Government's plans for the next financial year that starts on April 1.

It began with a discussion on ways to keep Singaporeans healthy in mind and body, and ended with a discussion on the role of the arts in helping society thrive.

It spanned familiar ground for this Government - the supply of hospital beds, nurses' training, campaigns against obesity and a law to ban smoking for those below age 21 - but also stretched to the outer reaches, where the avant-garde and experimental arts reside.

The sitting started on a light note, with Dr Chia Shi-Lu (Tanjong Pagar GRC) quoting the late American comedian George Burns, who liked to say, "I look to the future because that's where I'm going to spend the rest of my life".

Dr Chia did so to stress that good health is to a large extent a choice: "We reap what we sow; the lifestyle decisions we make have a significant impact on our health in later life. We cannot choose our parents and so our genetic make-up is predetermined. But we can choose how we live our lives."

The Ministry of Health(MOH) wants individuals to take charge of their health, and will help them through a slew of programmes to spur lifestyle change when it comes to health checks, diet, exercise and sleep. These are linked to the Government's war against diabetes launched last year.

Yesterday, Health Minister Gan Kim Yong told the House of a worrying rise in obesity among younger Singaporeans aged 18 to 39, with the obesity rate doubling in two decades from 4.2 per cent in 1992 to 8.4 per cent in 2013.

"This is worrying as obesity is a key driver contributing to the diabetes burden in Singapore. Based on projections, one in three Singaporeans will develop diabetes in their lifetime. Obesity and diabetes are risk factors for heart disease and stroke. If we do not address these risk factors early, the progress we have achieved over the years will be eroded," he said.

He sought to rally the troops by urging everyone to keep in mind three Rs - refrain, reduce and replace - when deciding on what to eat: refrain from unhealthy food, reduce the amount of such food one eats, and replace them with healthier alternatives.

Another challenge is the rising rate of dementia as society ages.

One aim is to empower members of local communities, including general practitioners, to detect the disease early and help care for those suffering from it.

MOH is working with MPs and volunteer welfare organisations to build dementia-friendly communities on the ground. Ms Tin Pei Ling, whose MacPherson ward already has such a community, called for a national database of those diagnosed with dementia so befrienders can reach out to them and their families.

Empowering individuals to take charge of their health and cultivating communities able to care for those in need is the right way to improve quality of life for people across age groups.

Quality of life, too, is at the centre of the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth's (MCCY) work which, as Minister Grace Fu noted, deals with intangibles and yet has the power to stir the deepest emotions.

Building on recent major advances to develop sports, the arts and culture, Ms Fu announced measures to make arts and sports facilities more accessible to people with disabilities, and plans to grow arts education through a new Performing Arts-based Learning Programme for lower secondary school students.

Nominated MP Kok Heng Leun, a theatre director, said the arts sector brimmed with vitality, but also called for greater acceptance of artists who push boundaries and suffer a pushback that leads to their work being removed or censored.

"I feel the need to emphasise the importance of experimental, avant-garde art ... They represent adventure, exploration; offer new ways of seeing," he said.

The public often meet such works with suspicion and derision but "it is the unconventional that brings new knowledge, understanding and change", he added. That extends to arts in the community.

Mr Kok waded into an ongoing issue between the Jalan Besar Town Council and Lasalle College of the Arts student Priyageetha Dia, 25, who covered a flight of stairs outside her family's HDB flat in gold foil for her final-year project. He said "art in community is often spontaneous and interventionist", "serves as a response to the place and people around it" and engages and enlivens the community.

He called for policies to be adjusted to allow for more such engagement and arts participation.

MCCY office-holders disagreed.

Parliamentary Secretary Baey Yam Keng said the Government had, over the years, expanded the space for artistic expression but "we need to be mindful of our social and cultural context, and balance this with mutual respect of views and social harmony".

Artworks, he added, need to be context- and age-appropriate.

Such tension is to be expected when it comes to edgy artworks that fall outside the comfort zone of politicians, civil servants and many Singaporeans. Still, a healthy society is one that remains open to growing - within limits - the space for artistic expression as a source of new ideas and perspectives.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Transport






Bukit Panjang LRT system to get complete overhaul
By Christopher Tan, Senior Transport Correspondent, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Plans to overhaul the problematic Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) system have been set in motion, but commuters are likely to have to wait a few more years for a new and more reliable ride.

Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan said in Parliament yesterday that the Government intends to call a tender this year for the "complete replacement" of the LRT's ageing components and an upgrade of its systems.

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said it would be sourcing new trains, power rail, signalling system and various other critical components.

Plans to fix the glitch-prone system, which has been acting up since it first began operations 18 years ago, were first revealed last October.

Mr Lee Ling Wee, managing director of operator SMRT Trains, which runs the BPLRT, had said in a blog that a few options were being considered.

The first option was to deploy self-powered, autonomous guided vehicles on the existing viaduct.

The second was to build a new LRT system with significant design enhancements. Mr Lee then noted that the current system is more suitable as an airport shuttle plying short distances on flat ground, instead of the gradients that BPLRT trains are made to tackle currently.

The third option was to renew the existing Bombardier system with a more updated signalling system where trains can be tracked more accurately as they operate at higher frequencies.

If all three options were not feasible, there was another alternative: scrap the system and revert to buses. The Government has ruled out this alternative, saying it would lead to heavy congestion on the roads.

The first option of autonomous vehicles has also been ruled out.

Asked for more details of the BPLRT renewal process, the LTA would say only that it will be "a complex project".

"We also need to minimise any inconvenience to commuters as these works will have to be done on a 'live' and running system," an LTA spokesman said, adding that there will be an announcement on this at a later date.

Experts said that if the plan is to replace existing operating and fixed assets with no fundamental design changes, the bugs may remain.

They added that a redesign is unlikely to be feasible without closing the line temporarily.

Singapore Institute of Technology assistant professor (engineering cluster) Andrew Ng said: "If closing the BPLRT in phases is impossible, the authority should consider providing bridging bus services between the affected stations to reduce the disruption of residents' travelling patterns."

Khaw Boon Wan: Public transport fares may go up
Tax burden for transport 'can't be too excessive'
By Christopher Tan, Senior Transport Correspondent, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

It is not sustainable for taxpayers to increasingly subsidise the cost of operating Singapore's public transport systems.

Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan said this and raised the possibility of commuters paying higher fares in his speech in Parliament yesterday, during the debate on his ministry's budget.

Mr Khaw said that over the next five years, the Government expects to subsidise public bus services by almost $4 billion.

Under the new bus contracting model, fare revenue goes to the Government, but this is still insufficient to cover operating costs, he explained.

The Government, he said, also expects to spend another $4 billion or so on replacing ageing rail assets in the same timeframe.

"And all this is on top of about $20 billion we will be spending to build new public transport infrastructure," he added. "We must ensure that the fiscal burden does not become too excessive for taxpayers."



He said that in the earlier years, taxpayers funded the construction of transport infrastructure while commuters bore the operating costs through fares.

"But over the years, as fares have not kept up with rising costs, taxpayers have to subsidise more and more of the operating costs, especially as we have been raising service standards significantly," he said.

Mr Khaw said the Public Transport Council (PTC) will review the fare formula when it expires following this year's fare adjustment exercise.

"They will consult widely. I am confident that they will decide wisely," he said, emphasising that "many commuters have benefited" from the council's recent harmonisation of fares between above-ground and underground MRT lines.

"They have seen their fares reduced," he said. "But remember, the PTC cannot always bring good news. Sometimes, they have to adjust fares upwards. If they do, I hope commuters will be understanding."

Khaw sets new target for MRT reliability
Aim for 2017 is an average of 300,000km before a delay of over 5min; last year it was 174,000km
By Adrian Lim, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan has set MRT operators a new reliability target this year - trains are to travel an average of 300,000km before a delay occurs.

The target will be a 72 per cent improvement over last year's average of 174,000km that trains travelled before encountering a delay of more than five minutes.

"And next year, we will shoot for 400,000. It can be done," he said yesterday during the debate on the Transport Ministry's budget.

He said Singapore's MRT reliability is "not yet where we want to be, but we will get there".

The mean kilometre before failure is used by many cities as an indicator of rail reliability.

The Taipei metro, for example, achieved 800,000 train-km in 2015 before a breakdown.

Responding to concerns raised by Mr Ang Wei Neng (Jurong GRC), Mr Zaqy Mohamad (Chua Chu Kang GRC) and Non-Constituency MP Dennis Tan about delays and breakdowns faced by commuters, Mr Khaw said raising train reliability is a "multi-year" effort as replacing ageing assets takes time.

He said that a number of projects to upgrade the 30-year-old North- South and East-West Lines (NSEWL) are under way or in the pipeline. The replacement of the power-supplying third-rail system of the trunk lines will be completed this year.

The upgrade of the North-South Line's signalling system - which will allow trains to run at up to 100-second intervals during peak hours, instead of 120 seconds - will also be completed soon, he added. For the East-West Line, this upgrade will be completed next year.

Tenders will be called soon for an overhaul of the NSEWL's power supply system, Mr Khaw said, adding that this has been a "source of many problems in the last few years".

He also warned commuters of potential problems when the MRT cuts over to the new signalling system. That has been the "painful experience" in London, Hong Kong and Taipei, he said.

"They warned us that we should expect many teething problems," said Mr Khaw.

Second Minister for Transport Ng Chee Meng said in his speech yesterday that the new trains and power supply system will have condition- monitoring sensors.

The power system, for example, will have instruments to monitor the temperature of the switchgear panel in real time to detect anomalies early. The switchgear is a device used to control, protect and isolate the electrical supply.

Mr Khaw said that to improve the maintenance regime of tracks, a new automatic track inspection system will be acquired.

This system will use imaging sensors and laser scanners fitted on the undercarriages of trains to monitor track conditions. For a start, four Downtown Line trains will be fitted with these devices.

Mr Ang also raised concerns about the recent delays between the Jurong East and Joo Koon MRT stations.

He said: "There were at least three major breakdowns... in January alone, and numerous incidents where residents had to add tens of minutes of travelling time between the two stations."

In reply, Mr Khaw said that there are very old signalling components which need to be replaced, but these works, along with maintenance, may not be completed during the limited off-service hours. This is why train service was occasionally impacted when planned works extended into revenue hours.

He added that he has asked the Land Transport Authority and operator SMRT to consider Mr Ang's suggestion of ending revenue service for that stretch of the EWL earlier to accommodate the works.

Open strollers allowed on buses from 2 April 2017
By Zhaki Abdullah, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Commuters travelling on buses with children will not have to fold their strollers from April 2.

"We hope this will make travelling with young children on public transport more convenient," said Second Transport Minister Ng Chee Meng in Parliament yesterday during the Transport Ministry's budget debate.

He added, however, that parents will have to take responsibility for the safety of their children, including holding on to the open strollers.

A restraint system to secure strollers will be tested on one bus service - which has yet to be announced - from the second quarter of this year. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) said open strollers carried on board buses should be no larger than 120cm in length and 70cm in width.

They should also not be placed where they will obstruct the entry or exit of passengers, such as in the aisles or on the upper deck of double-decker buses. Strollers should be placed in designated wheelchair space, but wheelchair users will be given priority, said LTA.

Bus drivers may also request that open strollers in these spaces be folded when passengers in wheelchairs board.



Parents with young children welcomed the move.

"This is good news for me as I have to take the bus with my baby almost every day," said housewife Thu Lan, 29.

She added that she had once been asked to leave a bus as she had taken her one-year-old daughter, who was asleep, on board in an open stroller.

Mr Ng said the future transport system will be more inclusive and must be designed "thoughtfully" to serve the needs of those with disabilities, families with young children, and the elderly.

Initiatives such as making all MRT stations and bus interchanges barrier-free, and efforts to make all public buses wheelchair-accessible by 2020 have helped make public transport more accessible so far. But Mr Ng said there was still room for improvement.

In response to queries from Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC), Mr Ng said more spaces for wheelchairs and strollers would be available on future buses.

For those with visual disabilities, the LTA will begin testing audio announcements on buses.

Due to its proximity to the Enabling Village, Redhill MRT will be used as a test bed for new mobility technologies and infrastructure to improve access to public transport for those with disabilities.

"The journey from Redhill station to the Enabling Village is also a challenge for persons with disabilities, because of the hilly topography and the 400m distance," noted Mr Ng, adding that he has "challenged" the LTA and SG Enable to improve this last-mile stretch for them.

Several other accessibility initiatives will also be expanded.

By the end of next year, 24 more pedestrian overhead bridges will be installed with lifts, in addition to the 23 already completed.

Mr Ng said the Silver Zone programme - aimed at allowing elderly and disabled pedestrians to cross roads safely - will be expanded to another 41 locations, up from nine now.

Metered fares likely even as cab firms plan for surge pricing
By Adrian Lim, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Taxi companies look set to continue offering metered fares even as they have informed the authorities of their plans to introduce surge pricing.

Second Minister for Transport Ng Chee Meng told Parliament of the likelihood yesterday, saying: "The taxi companies, I understand, intend to retain the traditional metered fare system even as they introduce dynamic pricing."

Such pricing will see fares go up or down according to supply and demand, but some commuters prefer metered fares, said Mr Ng, as they are more familiar with it.

Cab companies ComfortDelGro, Trans-Cab and Premier recently informed the Public Transport Council (PTC) that they want to implement surge pricing, which is used by private-hire services Uber and Grab.

The system has drawn flak from some commuters for being exorbitant, particularly during periods of high demand. There were instances when fares went up by 3.9 times during train breakdowns.

Mr Ng said the PTC is discussing the details of the new pricing system with the taxi companies.

He made the point when addressing the concerns of Mr Ang Hin Kee (Ang Mo Kio GRC) and Mr Sitoh Yih Pin (Potong Pasir) about Uber and Grab drivers competing with taxi drivers for fares.

"My view is that we should let the taxi industry innovate and adapt to new market conditions and competition," said Mr Ng. "Our taxi drivers have to make a living, and we should not restrict their ability to compete effectively."

He said the "light-touch" approach to managing changes in the evolving industry has served commuters well.

New regulations, such as requiring private-hire car drivers to obtain a vocational licence from July, will protect commuters' interests, he added.

These drivers will have to undergo a 10-hour course and be subject to background and medical checks.

Mr Ng said the Government will continue to maintain some differentiation in regulations between taxi and private-hire car services for now. These include allowing only taxis to pick up street hails.

Mr Zaqy Mohamad (Chua Chu Kang GRC) asked if the availability of taxis will become a problem, as demand-based pricing could influence drivers' behaviour.

Mr Ng said the Government will monitor and take any action should availability become an issue.

13,000 new jobs in air, sea sectors by 2025
MPA to provide more funds for upgrading; CAAS working with partners to boost productivity
By Karamjit Kaur, Aviation Correspondent, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

About 13,000 jobs will be created in the air and sea transport sectors by 2025, as Singapore continues to expand its airport and port operations.

The nature of the jobs, though, will be different, said Senior Minister of State for Transport Josephine Teo in Parliament yesterday during the debate on the Transport Ministry's budget.

"Innovation and the intensive use of technology will transform the way people work and companies do business," she said.

The increasing deployment of smart technologies means that new jobs will be more knowledge-intensive.

Currently, there are 250,000 workers in these two sectors, which contribute around 10 per cent to Singapore's gross domestic product.

More jobs will be created over the next 10 to 15 years, when Changi Airport's Terminal 5 and a new port in Tuas are operational. Both of them will double their current operational capacity.

At the port, more data scientists and operations research analysts will be needed to optimise shipping routes, port operations and vessel traffic management.

At the airport, Changi will need data scientists skilled in air traffic operations research and analysis, to optimise runway and airspace capacities through modelling and simulation, she said.

Technology will also transform existing jobs into higher-skill, higher-value jobs, Mrs Teo added.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) will provide more funding and support to help Singaporeans under the Manpower Development and Productivity Fund.

Workers can tap the fund to upgrade their skills to take on these knowledge-intensive jobs, and maritime companies can use the fund to adopt technology to improve business processes, respectively.

Mrs Teo yesterday also assured MPs that the Government was constantly looking at ways to innovate at the port and airport.

Singapore will continue to innovate to stay ahead, she said, addressing concerns raised by several MPs including Ms Cheng Li Hui (Tampines GRC), Mr Lee Yi Shyan (East Coast GRC) and Mr Ang Wei Neng (Jurong GRC) about intensifying competition in both sectors.

To prepare for the future, the MPA will set up a Living Lab this year at its ports and work with partners to set up three centres to deepen maritime research and development competencies.

It will focus, among other areas, on the development of drones and other autonomous systems to enhance productivity and safety.

Technology to bolster safety and security with smart sensors for detecting intrusions, for example, will also be explored.

In the aviation sector, the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) is working closely with industry partners to boost productivity and efficiency on the ground.

For example, the deployment of robotics will relieve workers of labour-intensive tasks.

Ground handler Sats uses automated guided vehicles to transport food items between food stores and assembly lines, eliminating the need for workers to walk up and down. This has reduced preparation time by almost 40 per cent.

Another initiative is the use of smart watches paired with hands-free headsets to help ground workers who escort planes to and from the parking gates work better and faster.

Sats technical officer Alvin Chan Yu Tong, 31, who uses the smart watch, said: "This has helped me make better decisions, react faster to changes on the ground and redeploy manpower more efficiently."

Whether in 10, 20 or 50 years, Singapore must remain leading aviation and maritime hubs, Mrs Teo said. "We cannot stop others from upping their game. We will just have to do everything within our powers to stay ahead," she added.

Tighter standards to rein in vehicle emissions
New scheme will mean tax surcharges for more cars, may signal end for diesel models
By Christopher Tan, Senior Transport Correspondent, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

A new Vehicular Emissions Scheme (VES) effective from Jan 1 next year is likely to see more cars slapped with tax surcharges and, quite possibly, the death of diesel models.

The new scheme, administered by the National Environment Agency and announced by Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli yesterday, will be far stricter on carbon dioxide emissions, and will include checks on four other pollutants - hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides and particulate matter.

Diesel models tend to produce a lot more of the last two pollutants, and the impact on their prices could squeeze them out of the market, experts said.



Stressing the importance of clean air, the minister said the World Health Organisation had reported that every year, air pollution killed more than half a million children. "Diesel vehicles are a major source of local air pollution, especially particulate matter and nitrogen oxides," he said.

Models will be banded according to their worst-performing pollutant. Diesel models, with their comparatively low carbon dioxide levels that would have qualified them for rebates, are likely to be slapped with hefty surcharges because of their relatively high nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions.

Many popular petrol cars that qualify for $5,000 or $10,000 tax breaks today will fall into the neutral band, where no rebate or surcharge is applied.

As of now, only electric models are likely to qualify for the top rebate of $20,000 and $30,000 for cars and taxis, respectively. There will, however, be a grid emission factor to take into account the carbon dioxide generated for electricity to charge these battery-powered vehicles.

Mr Masagos also announced that petrol vehicles in use today will have to pass stricter inspections from April 1 next year.

Most of these vehicles will have to emit less carbon monoxide than now, and will have to meet a new hydrocarbons cap. For instance, any car registered from April 1, 2014 should have a carbon monoxide composition of no more than 0.3 per cent in its emissions, and a hydrocarbon make-up of no more than 200 parts per million at an engine speed of 2,000rpm.

Less stringent standards apply to motorbikes and older cars. For diesel vehicles, the National Environment Agency said the current smoke opacity test will continue to apply.

Mr Masagos said: "These standards are designed to be easily met by properly maintained vehicles."

Meanwhile, the Early Turnover Scheme will offer bigger carrots to entice fleet owners to replace their older light diesel commercial vehicles with those that comply with the latest Euro 6 emission standard.

The enhanced scheme, which will run from Aug 1 this year to July 31, 2019, targets owners of Euro 2 and 3 light commercial vehicles of up to 3,500kg. Those qualifying will be granted a 35 per cent certificate of entitlement (COE) bonus of their vehicle's remaining 20-year lifespan, up from 13 per cent now.

This bonus will be applied as a discount to the COE prevailing quota premium, which the owner can use for his replacement vehicle instead of having to bid for a new certificate.

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources

Water-efficient toilet bowls, smart shower devices for homes
6,000 older flats may see reduced water bills after bowl change; 10,000 new homes to track usage with devices
By Audrey Tan, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Old flats will get new toilet bowls as part of the national push to save water. In another move, intelligent devices will help people track how much water they use as they shower.

Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli, in announcing both initiatives yesterday, said Singapore could do more to reduce water usage.

"I have been inspired by the many stories of people who have gone the extra mile to conserve water... This is the right spirit. We should do more together," he said during the debate on his ministry's budget.

The first effort involves replacing non water-efficient toilet bowls in Housing Board flats built between 1986 and 1992, occupied by lower- income households.

PUB said details about both projects will be announced later this year.

The existing, single-flush 9-litre toilet bowls in these flats will be replaced with more efficient, dual- flush ones that have a capacity of 4 litres. This is expected to reduce monthly water bills by up to 10 per cent. Such a replacement is expected to save 5 litres for each full flush, and about 6,000 flats may benefit.

The other project involves installing smart shower devices in 10,000 new homes. These devices tell people how much water they are using as they shower. Both schemes come under national water agency PUB.

PUB also clarified changes to water usage calculations, after Mr Masagos revealed slightly lower per capita water usage.

Last year, PUB excluded water usage in dormitories and common areas when calculating per capita daily water usage, to better reflect water consumption within household residential premises.

Based on this new formula, each person in Singapore used about 149 litres of water a day in 2015, less than the initial reported figure of 151 litres. The figure declined to 148 litres last year. However, it remains some way off from the 2030 target of 140 litres a day, Mr Masagos said yesterday.

"My ministry and PUB have a suite of measures - in addition to right pricing - to promote greater water savings for households and businesses," he said. The Government had earlier announced that PUB will raise water prices by 30 per cent over the next two years.

Mr Masagos was responding to queries raised by six MPs, including Associate Professor Faishal Ibrahim (Nee Soon GRC) and Dr Chia Shi-Lu (Tanjong Pagar GRC), on how lower-income households can cope with increased water prices.

The installation of the smart shower devices follows an earlier study that PUB did with the National University of Singapore, which showed that a person could save up to 5 litres of water a day using such devices. To further help people save water at home, Mr Masagos said PUB will start to phase out less water-efficient products.

PUB will raise the minimum standards of water fittings to two-tick products, up from one-tick, from April 2019. The tick system awards more ticks to more water-efficient products. PUB will also extend such labelling requirements to dishwashers from October next year.

In response to questions from Ms Lee Bee Wah (Nee Soon GRC) and Mr Gan Thiam Poh (Ang Mo Kio GRC) on the Republic's plans to cope with unpredictable and intense rainfall, Mr Masagos said PUB will start drainage improvement works at another 27 locations. Such works have already been conducted at about 300 locations islandwide over the past four years.

The Stamford Detention Tank - an underground concrete tank that can hold up to 15 Olympic-size pools worth of rainwater - will also be ready this year. The Stamford Diversion Canal and Bukit Timah First Diversion Canal will be ready next year.

"These works, when ready, will enhance flood protection for their catchments," said Mr Masagos.

Masagos: Planning ahead crucial for reliable water supply
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

When a storm raged across the Netherlands in 1953, massive floods claimed 1,800 lives. The country was unprepared: sea water breached dykes, which had not been raised despite warnings of trouble.

"The fact was that nobody felt like spending a vast amount of money on raising the dykes. After all, there were no floods for years," Environment and Water Resources Minister Masagos Zulkifli said yesterday, during the debate on his ministry's budget.

That flood is etched in Dutch national memory, he noted, as he cited their experience with water to highlight the need for long-term planning.

The Dutch have built a system of dykes, pumps and water storage capabilities - with each household contributing water taxes, enabling the world's first and only Water Bank for large investments. Today, the Dutch pour over €400 million (S$598 million) into flood protection a year, have attracted water-intensive investments and exported their expertise.



While Singapore does not have enough water, it has taken the same determined approach to ensure a reliable supply, Mr Masagos said. Planning and investing in water resources ahead of time have become even more critical with climate change posing a challenge to water security globally, he added.

He cited how Johor's Linggiu Reservoir, which feeds into the Johor River from which Singapore draws its supply, is a third full "and can dry up if current abstractions continue and prolonged dry weather returns unpredicted". Fortunately, he said, Singapore was prepared during a dry spell in 2014.

"For PUB, it's always about ensuring resilience in our water supply so that disruptions do not occur to our industries and no Singaporean will die of thirst," he said. Last year, the national water agency completed its latest review of a plan to ensure Newater and desalination plants meet up to 85 per cent of the country's water demand by 2060, as well as new pipelines for drinking water and used water.

"We are making good progress," Mr Masagos said, citing the opening of a fifth Newater plant in January and the three new desalination plants being built. "All these have now become critical so that we have a resilient water supply when the weather does not favour us," he added.

"Our strategy involves not just long-term planning, but also right pricing and water conservation measures. All these levers work in tandem."

$90m fund lined up to boost hawker trade
Money to support suggestions by Hawker Centre 3.0 Committee
By Samantha Boh, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

A $90 million kitty will be set up to breathe new life into the hawker sector, which is dogged by an ageing workforce and a shortage of fresh blood.

The money will help pay for initiatives such as centralised dishwashing services and cashless payment systems, which will be rolled out at existing hawker centres.

A productivity grant will also be introduced in the third quarter of this year to spur hawkers to adopt kitchen automation equipment by co-funding such purchases.

These are some ways the $90 million fund will be used to support recommendations put forth by the Hawker Centre 3.0 Committee last month.

Senior Minister of State for the Environment and Water Resources Amy Khor yesterday said her ministry has accepted the suggestions of the committee, which she chaired.

For a start, the National Environment Agency (NEA) will alter the infrastructure of 25 existing hawker centres it manages over the next few years, to facilitate the adoption of initiatives like cashless payment systems that benefit all stall-owners.

It will co-fund up to 70 per cent of the operating costs of such productivity measures for a period of time to encourage hawkers to take them up, Dr Khor told the House.

A Hawkers' Productivity Grant will allow each stall-owner to claim 80 per cent of the cost of kitchen automation equipment on a reimbursement basis, capped at $5,000 within three years.

"This will help lower the initial costs of adoption of productivity measures that will help realise manpower and cost savings in the longer term," said Dr Khor.



Separately, the Government will launch a three-year hawker centre adoption programme later this year. It will allow organisations to apply for a grant of up to $2,000 to organise an event or activity at a hawker centre, capped at $10,000 a year.

The NEA will also work with cleaning contractors to promote tray returns and dispel the misconception that it will make cleaners jobless. It will also enhance tray-return facilities to make them more prominent and accessible.

She told the House that the initiatives are aimed at ensuring that the hawker trade remains sustainable and viable.

In line with that goal, "incubation" stalls will be made available in the second half of this year to aspiring hawkers, who will get to try their hand at the trade for six months and decide if they are cut out for the trade without heavy investments, she said.

Other initiatives to be rolled out include a one-stop information and service centre that will provide information essential for hawkers, such as on training courses and funding, as well as a new training course on hawker business management. A series of classes starting in May will allow members of the public to learn how to cook from veteran hawkers.

"(The initiatives) should help to support both existing and aspiring hawkers. This, in turn, will allow Singaporeans to continue enjoying affordable food in a clean and hygienic environment," she said.

Upgraded waste system for new private apartments
By Samantha Boh, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Plans are under way to encourage private apartment dwellers to recycle more and make it easier for cleaners to collect their trash.

All new private apartment blocks with more than four storeys must soon have two waste chutes - one for recyclables and the other for trash that will be incinerated.

Developments with at least 500 housing units must also have a pneumatic waste conveyance system (PWCS), which will transport waste from rubbish chutes to a central collection area via an underground network of vacuum-type pipes.

These measures, which will kick in for developers that apply to build new apartments from April next year, were announced by Senior Minister of State for the Environment and Water Resources Amy Khor.

MPs Faishal Ibrahim (Nee Soon GRC) and Cheng Li Hui (Tampines GRC) spoke about Singapore's poor domestic recycling rate, and Dr Khor said yesterday the dual chutes will encourage recycling by making it more convenient.

Studies have found that households in apartments with such chutes recycle up to three times more than those in apartments which do not have such facilities.

Such systems have already sprung up in public housing. As of April last year, they were in 72 new Build-To-Order projects comprising close to 426 blocks, and will hopefully take Singapore closer to its goal of recycling 70 per cent of the waste it generates by 2030.

At present, only about 61 per cent is recycled, a figure boosted by the non-domestic sector which recycled 76 per cent of waste last year.

The domestic recycling rate stands at a mere 21 per cent. Dr Khor said such initiatives will have to go hand in hand with education.

On waste collection, Dr Khor agreed with Dr Chia Shi-Lu (Tanjong Pagar GRC) and Ms Cheng that current methods are "manpower intensive and unsustainable".

She said the PWCS is a more efficient, manpower-light method that will reduce pest nuisance, odours and exposed waste. It has been installed in more than 100 condominiums and the Yuhua estate, and will be in place in new Housing Board estates Tampines North and Bidadari.

The authorities will also study the feasibility of implementing it at a district level, to reap greater economies of scale.

Industrial sector to face stricter energy laws
By Audrey Tan, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Singapore will tackle climate change by targeting the biggest culprits - the industrial sector, responsible for 60 per cent of the country's greenhouse gas emissions.

From next year, the Energy Conservation Act will be enhanced and made more stringent, said Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Masagos Zulkifli yesterday.

The Act now requires large energy users to appoint an energy manager, routinely monitor and report energy use and annual emissions, as well as submit annual energy efficiency improvement plans to the National Environment Agency.

After the laws are tightened, companies will have to ensure common industrial equipment and systems meet minimum energy performance standards, among others.

During the debate on his ministry's budget, Mr Masagos said: "These practices are in line with that of leading jurisdictions and will help companies to adopt more efficient equipment, conserve energy and enjoy life cycle cost savings."

He cited electronic component manufacturer Murata Electronics Singapore as a good example. The firm is replacing 50 motors with higher-efficiency ones, helping it save $21,000 on electricity a year.

Having a structured measurement, reporting and verification system will help pave the way for the carbon tax scheme the Government plans to impose from 2019.

The scheme will tax power stations and other large emitters based on the amount of greenhouse gases they produce, likely in the range of $10 to $20 per tonne.

Other changes to the Act require companies expanding their facilities to factor energy efficiency into their designs, as well as measure and report energy usage for key energy-consuming systems.

Under the Paris climate pact inked in December 2015, Singapore pledged to reduce the amount of greenhouse gases emitted to achieve each dollar of gross domestic product by 36 per cent from 2005 levels, come 2030. It has also pledged to stop any increase to its greenhouse gas emissions by around 2030.

Said Mr Masagos: "As a responsible member of the international community, Singapore is committed to fulfilling our pledge under the Paris Agreement to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions."

But he added the perennial haze - caused by forest fires in countries such as Indonesia due to illegal land clearing methods by palm oil and pulp and paper companies - represents a major setback to global efforts to fight climate change.

Said Mr Masagos: "It is important that we continue to send a strong deterrent signal to errant companies responsible for the fires, that they must change their ways."

Committee of Supply debate: Ministry of Social and Family Development






Scheme to draw housewives, grandmas to infant care sector
By Priscilla Goy, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Housewives and grandmothers are being wooed to enter the infant care sector, with a new training scheme that focuses more on hands-on practice.

Similar to an apprenticeship, it caters to people "including more mature women, who are not inclined towards long classroom-based training", said the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA).

The Government hopes to train about 200 allied infant educarers (AIEs) in the next two to three years under this scheme, to be piloted at the end of this month.

It is part of ECDA's plans to attract 1,000 more infant educarers - who work with children aged two months to 18 months - by 2020.

There are about 1,400 infant educarers now.

It is one of three initiatives announced in Parliament yesterday to attract and develop manpower in the early childhood sector, which is facing a chronic labour shortage. They support plans announced in the Budget speech last month to have 1,000 more infant care places by 2020 to meet demand.

Said Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development Faishal Ibrahim during the debate on his ministry's budget: "We understand that some people with interest, aptitude and competence to care for infants may be unable to join the sector, either because they do not want to attend classroom-based training, or they lack the appropriate academic records."

He said the AIE scheme will focus on "aptitude and competency, rather than academic qualifications".

On-the-job training will take up 45 per cent of the course's 110 training hours. By contrast, an existing course for infant educarers runs for 300 hours, of which 40 per cent is spent on on-the-job training. This gives them more guidance on planning activities for children.

The new scheme aims to give trainees "fundamental skills for quality infant care", for instance in feeding.

An ECDA spokesman said the AIEs can be counted as programme staff, who are factored in pre-schools' staff-child ratio requirements. "They will support the certified infant educarers and work under the close supervision of a senior infant educarer," he said.

The scheme will start with about 30 childcare centres run by anchor operators, which get government grants and priority in securing sites to set up centres but have to meet fee caps and quality criteria.

Ms Tin Pei Ling (MacPherson) asked if the AIE scheme will compromise the quality of infant care.

In response, Dr Faishal said safeguards are in place: Operators will nominate "only experienced senior infant educarers" to mentor the AIEs, and regulations will ensure standards are upheld. The hands-on training will also be based on real-life scenarios.

"I think this will translate into better quality services for our infants and our parents," he said.

Ms Nyaneswari Paramasivam, 35, of My First Skool will be among the first batch of AIEs trained. She used to work in another centre as an untrained employee for two years, then took on jobs in other industries. The classroom training in courses made her reluctant to return to the sector. The mother of two said: "It's good to focus on hands-on practice, because you need that to know how to manage kids."

Ms Loy Wee Mee, director of Pre-School By-The-Park, welcomed the scheme but hoped it would be rolled out to other operators later.

She said it is harder to attract infant educarers as their jobs are perceived to "involve a lot of nannying" but they support children in reaching developmental milestones too.

"Any increase in supply of infant educarers is welcome, but the importance of classroom training should not be underestimated."

Other initiatives announced yesterday include a new professional development programme for those who work with children aged two months to four years. There will also be an advanced diploma course for experienced teachers to prepare them for leadership roles.

Stepped-up bid to spot developmental delays
Pre-school teachers, polyclinic docs to be trained to screen kids
By Janice Tai, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Doctors in neighbourhood polyclinics and pre-school teachers will be trained to spot and screen children who are not reaching their developmental milestones, so the children can get help earlier.

In the next few years, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) will work with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to form a network of touchpoints that can identify children with developmental conditions, such as speech and language delays and autism.

This way, the children can be referred more quickly for appropriate support, said Minister for Social and Family Development Tan Chuan-Jin in Parliament yesterday. "Timely and appropriate support in the early years of the children's lives can maximise their potential."

Mr Tan announced the scheme in a speech that focused on how the Government is seeking to build an inclusive society for the disadvantaged.

He stressed, for instance, that there is leeway for front-line officers to calibrate the amount and duration of ComCare assistance given to families with differing needs.

The move to equip doctors and pre-school teachers at the front line with skills to detect children with developmental problems comes amid a rise in the number of children with such issues.

The Straits Times understands that currently, the bulk of them are diagnosed by the Child Development Programme at the KK Women's and Children's Hospital.

Together with the National University Hospital, 4,000 new patients were identified in 2015.

This was a 60 per cent increase from around 2,500 new cases diagnosed in 2010, according to MOH.

The top four most common conditions are speech and language delays, autism spectrum disorders, behavioural problems and global developmental delay.

Now, polyclinics and family medicine practitioners will be trained in developmental screening. Pre- school teachers will learn the skills to detect children with such needs early. MSF did not disclose the number to be trained.

Children assessed and given early intervention therapy range from babies to those under seven years of age.

MOH attributed the rise in diagnosis to a greater awareness of developmental problems and an improved system of screening in pre-schools and in the community.

With more eyes on the ground, the hope is that even more children with needs can be detected early.

Ms Paula Teo, senior manager at Autism Association, said 90 per cent of children served by the association were diagnosed with autism when they were about two or three years old. The rest came to learn about their condition at age four or five.

Said Ms Teo: "Research (says) that earlier detection and intervention does improve outcomes. Neural circuits, which create the foundation for learning, behaviour and health, are most flexible... during the first three years of life.

"Over time, they become increasingly difficult to change."

The Autism Resource Centre said more than 90 per cent of children in its early intervention programme make progress in aspects such as communication.

Ms Iris Lin, assistant director at Fei Yue Community Services, said many parents of special needs children go straight to a hospital to get a diagnosis once they sense something is amiss.

"Parents are more sensitive and educated now, and if the child is not doing certain things he is supposed to do at a certain age, they have the child assessed," said Ms Lin. "With more community touchpoints, they can get a second opinion or get screened more conveniently."

Ms Sun Meilan's son was diagnosed with autism at age two after her friend noticed he was behaving differently and urged her to see a specialist.

Said Ms Sun, 44: "Even as a 'seasoned' mother of three children, I missed all the signs for my boy. The onus lies more on the parents but it will be good if doctors are more vigilant too."

More children get to live with foster families
By Janice Tai, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Four out of every 10 children who were unable to live with their own families last year were cared for by foster families.

In 2013, only three out of 10 were under foster care. The rest were placed in children's homes.

Over the past three years, the Ministry of Social and Family Development has been trying to recruit and better support foster parents so that fewer children end up in institutions.

The thinking behind it is that children grow up best in a familial environment.

"Family-based care is important as children are better able to create bonds with a consistent caregiver in families.

"Such bonds are crucial for the development of the child's social, emotional and mental well-being," said a Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) spokesman.

Yesterday, MSF Parliamentary Secretary Faishal Ibrahim gave updated numbers on children under foster care.

Last year, 430 were under foster care, compared with 309 in 2013. Another 643 children lived in children's homes last year, a drop from 749 in 2013.

These children cannot live with their own families as they have been abandoned, neglected or abused by their parents, or because their parents cannot care for them due to imprisonment or illness.

In 2014, MSF announced an $8 million, three-year pilot scheme to boost the foster-care system by having dedicated fostering agencies to support parents in better caring for foster children.

Two agencies have since been set up and a third will be ready later this year.

MSF hopes more parents will come forward to provide care for infants who are aged below two, children who are seven and above, and those with special educational, physical or medical needs. These are the ones who may have a harder time securing foster families.

To find out more about fostering, call 6354-8799 or visit www.msf.gov.sg/fostering.

Definition of 'family' in spotlight
By Priscilla Goy, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

What makes a family?

That was a question that was raised in Parliament yesterday, with Nominated MPs Kok Heng Leun and Kuik Shiao-Yin asking the Ministry of Social and Family Development to be more "inclusive" in its definition.

Mr Kok asked if it could do away with the use of "illegitimacy" in policies on inheritance and tax reliefs, noting that some policies "disadvantage" unwed mothers and their children. Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development Faishal Ibrahim said Mr Kok's suggestion has "far-reaching implications".

Mr Kok clarified later: "I would like to know what far-reaching impact (there is)... We must be able to justify this impact or else these kids are going to bear this stigma for the rest of their lives."

Dr Faishal responded that such policies depend on how society has evolved, and that Mr Kok's suggestion is one that must be considered "carefully".

Ms Kuik called for more support for unwed mothers. She asked Dr Faishal: "(You) mentioned that responsibility to family is a critical guiding principle to protect.

"In the case of unwed mums, are they are not demonstrating responsibility to family in their choice to keep and raise their child?"

Dr Faishal replied that some benefits for married mothers have been extended to unwed mothers.

"We will help wherever possible, whoever we can... There are policies that cannot cover everything, but we will look at issues on a case-by-case basis," he said.

Mr Kok also asked if foreign spouses can be considered part of the family nucleus when applying to buy a Housing Board flat.

Dr Faishal suggested that people facing such problems see their MPs "and (we'll) see how we can facilitate it".

More help for caregivers of those with disabilities
By Janice Tai, The Straits Times, 9 Mar 2017

Fifteen-year-old Yip Boon Hong has epilepsy, and waves of seizures can strike up to 10 times a day.

His mother, Madam Lim Bee Lay, 45, keeps a close watch as he may hurt himself during those attacks when he loses control and falls.

Her years of caring for him makes for exhausting work, yet she finds herself unable to fall asleep on some nights, worrying about his future.

Since last year, however, she has been getting some respite every Saturday. She drops her son off at the headquarters of voluntary welfare organisation AWWA, where he finger-paints or plays with hula hoops. Meanwhile, his mother gets a much-needed rest or spends time with her nine-year-old daughter.

More caregivers such as Madam Lim will soon be able to have their needs better met with the setting up of a disability caregiver support centre, said Minister for Social and Family Development Tan Chuan-Jin in Parliament yesterday.

It will provide information, planned respite and training, as well as links to peer support groups and other agencies for further help.

Currently, some charities have support services for caregivers but these are usually for their own clients with a specific disability or condition - for instance, mental illness or intellectual disability. AWWA's pilot programme for caregivers started in April last year.

The new caregiver support centre, slated to be ready next year, will be a key node in a network of support being established by the National Council of Social Service and voluntary welfare organisations.

The network intends to reach out to about 2,000 caregivers over the next five years, said the ministry.

Mr Tan noted that the move to support caregivers better comes as families get smaller and a gap in caregiving may be more keenly felt. He said: "The role of a caregiver is physically and emotionally demanding and a burn-out is likely to happen."

The 2010 National Health Survey, which captured caregiver data for the first time, showed that about 210,000 people aged 18 to 69 provided regular care to family and friends. This number is expected to rise with the ageing population.

Caregivers could do with more support because many of them struggle with burn-out. A 2013 study by Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School revealed that nearly half of 1,190 caregivers surveyed here have jobs. Yet they spend 38 hours every week on caregiving, and are more likely to experience higher caregiver stress and depression.

Said Madam Lim: "Caregiving work is never-ending. With more support services coming up, I look forward to meeting other parents who face similar experiences to share tips, so that it feels less lonely a journey."

The ministry also announced that it will study the feasibility of an "Inclusive Pre-school" model that allows children with special needs to attend pre-school with other pupils.

"Children with special needs growing up in such an inclusive setting will develop age-appropriate social and communication skills, and motor and cognitive skills," it said.

"On the other hand, children who grow up alongside their peers with special needs will learn to understand and accept differences (from a young age)."

Related
Singapore Budget 2017
Budget 2017: Moving Forward Together
2017 Budget Statement debate in Parliament
Budget 2017 Committee of Supply Debate: MINDEF, MHA, MFA, MTI, MinLaw, PMO
Budget 2017 Committee of Supply Debate: MOE, MND, MOF, MOM, MCI

Town Councils Act amended: Law passed to strengthen town council governance

March 11, 2017, 11:17 pm

≫ Next: Govt eases some property cooling measures, cutting sellers' stamp duty and slightly relaxing TDSR rules from 11 March 2017

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Regulations part of wide-ranging changes to clarify town councils' role, boost financial management
By Danson Cheong, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

Town councils that fail to submit their audited financial accounts on time would have committed an offence under a new law passed by Parliament yesterday.

Another offence introduced in the new Town Councils Act is failing to keep a record of the conflicts of interest declared by town councillors and employees when dealing with, say, contracts.

A town council will also run afoul of the law when it carries out commercial activities, such as organising trade fairs, which are not part of its core functions.

The penalties include a fine of up to $5,000 when town councils fail to comply.

The regulations are part of wide-ranging changes that Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee said would clarify a town council's role, improve governance and strengthen financial management.



His ministry will also have greater regulatory oversight of town councils, a change opposed by the Workers' Party (WP).

Mr Lee said the changes will boost the transparency and public accountability of town councils.

The new law follows a review of the Town Councils Act that was mooted in 2013, following heated parliamentary debates on the running of town councils and the handover of Aljunied GRC, which the WP took over from the People's Action Party after the 2011 polls.

The amendments are the most sweeping since town councils were introduced in 1989.

In explaining their importance, Mr Lee said town councils serve more than 3.2 million residents and collectively manage over $1.6 billion in public funds. This is a sharp rise from 2.4 million residents and $300 million in the early 1990s, he noted.

People's expectations of town councils have also risen. "As public institutions entrusted with millions of dollars received from residents and the Government, town councils should be held to the same standards of governance as charities and public-listed companies," he said.

The robust debate involving 14 MPs lasted three hours. Eventually, all nine WP MPs voted against it.

The law's key changes include:

• Town councils must submit audited financial reports within six months of the financial year ending.

• Conflict of interest when handling say, contracts, must be declared and a record kept by the town council secretary. Those who must declare such conflict include town councillors, employees or anyone delegated with town council responsibilities.

• The ministry now has powers to do regular checks on the financial health of town councils and investigate suspected irregularities. It can appoint inspectors, who could be public officers or professionals, to do it. Key town council officers found guilty can be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to a year, or given both punishments.

But the stronger enforcement powers to investigate and require specific remedial actions to be taken "will generally be exercised when a town council is uncooperative or recalcitrant, refusing to correct irregularities despite due and fair notice", said Mr Lee.

The WP's Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC), in opposing it, said: "The MND (Ministry of National Development) risks becoming a tool of the ruling party of the day to fix the opposition."

But Mr Lee stressed that the new law seeks to preserve the autonomy and latitude of town councils while protecting residents' interests and public funds.

"With a stronger regulatory framework, MND will play a more effective role in safeguarding residents' interests," he added.

Workers' Party chided for questioning impartiality of civil service
By Charissa Yong, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

The Workers' Party (WP) yesterday objected to giving the Ministry of National Development (MND) powers to govern town councils, as part of changes to the Town Councils Act.

During the debate in Parliament, the WP MPs argued that civil servants will find it hard to be politically neutral because they report to political office-holders.

These ministers may wield the enforcement powers bestowed by the Act as a political tool against elected town councillors from a different political party, said Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC).



But Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee defended the impartiality of the civil service, saying her allegations were serious and unwarranted.

He cited three broad reasons. First, public servants understand the need for fairness and will act and do what is right, he said.

Second, the People's Action Party's track record shows it will act on alleged wrongdoing and not sweep things under the carpet. A case in point is the investigation of Ang Mo Kio Town Council's general manager and secretary, said Mr Lee. AMKTC is the town council of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

"Even in the PM's town council, when allegations were made, they took the first step to make a report and now the CPIB (Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau) is investigating," he said.

Third, any abuse of public powers is subject to the jurisdiction of the courts.



In the debate, Ms Lim and Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) zeroed in on Part 6(A) of the Bill. It allows MND to appoint inspectors to investigate town councils that have flouted regulations, and issue an order to specify remedial action, among other things. These may be public servants or qualified professionals.

Mr Singh said this can lead to the politicisation of the public service, adding: "The MND risks becoming a tool of the ruling party of the day to fix the opposition."

Ms Lim said: "It is not possible to argue that the ministry is a politically neutral body as recent history unfortunately belies that claim."

She said the ministry was "an active campaigner against the WP" in the 2015 General Election, regularly issuing statements on alleged misconduct of the WP-run town council. But after Polling Day, she said, little was heard for weeks. She added that civil servants cannot be expected to issue stinging reports against a town council run by a minister.

Mr Lee objected to what he called Ms Lim's insinuation that public officers acted in a partisan way, and said MND gives town councils the chance to correct inconsistencies and accounting errors in their submitted financial statements.

Ms Lim, a former police officer, said she recognised civil servants do their best to act responsibly, but realistically might find it difficult.

Countering, Mr Lee said: "First she says on the one hand... her former colleagues are people of integrity with spines of steel... and on the other hand, she says they will kowtow their timorous souls.

"I think we all object to that. Our officers are brought up with an ethos of integrity, service and excellence."

MND won't step in unless situation is dire
By Rachel Au-Yong, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

The Ministry of National Development (MND) will intervene in how town councils are run only when the safety or health of residents is at risk, Senior Minister of State Desmond Lee said yesterday.

He gave this assurance after opposition MPs expressed concern that new rules in the Town Councils Act could threaten the autonomy of town councils.

Amendments to the law allow the Government to investigate a town council over suspected irregularities, issue rectification orders or step in to manage it in severe cases, among other things.

Previously, MND had powers to step in only as a last resort, and in limited circumstances.

Mr Lee told members that the ministry will adopt a light-touch approach to such infractions, saying: "MND's rectification order can only reflect what the town council ought to have done in the first place.

"It will not require the town council to take any action over and above what is necessary to comply with the Act and its subsidiary legislation."

All nine Workers' Party MPs opposed the changes as they objected to the oversight provision.

Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) said the WP did not oppose five of the six amendments proposed in the explanatory statement to the Act - "however, the introduction of oversight mechanisms and monitoring powers... has the potential for abuse".

He said this amendment was "overly intrusive" and runs counter to the idea of using town councils as a way to evaluate the effectiveness of an MP.

But Mr Lim Biow Chuan (Mountbatten) said: "If the WP is able to manage the town council well, and with proper governance... the Government would not come in." He added: "If my town council is badly managed, I would expect the Government to look after the interests of residents and interfere."

However, Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC) argued that there could be potential conflicts of interest, as such interventions would be directed by the minister, who is "supposed to be running a town council too". "His bosses... are all also running town councils... Is the minister a suitable gatekeeper with these massive conflicts of interest?"

In reply, Mr Lee said these are "serious allegations, quite unwarranted and perhaps are indicative of the world view from which the WP comes".

He pointed to the WP's conduct in the saga over Aljunied-Hougang Town Council's (AHTC) troubling accounts, citing how when the HDB sought court intervention in 2015 to appoint an independent auditor to look into problems and take necessary action, AHTC fought the application and tried to stop an independent auditor from being appointed.

"Is it a willingness for appropriate independent, fair, justifiable regulatory oversight or is there a preference for no oversight whatsoever?" he said.

Ms Lim replied that AHTC took that position in court based on legal advice, and said it was not tenable to give political office-holders decision-making power over political institutions like town councils.

Mr Lee responded: "The key point I would like this House to take away was that while Ms Lim talked aspirationally about the need for independent oversight, what the town council was arguing in court was that where there was mismanagement of funds, nothing could be done beyond the ballot box."

Key changes to Town Councils Act
The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

1 Audited financial reports must be submitted within six months of the financial year's end. Town councils must also publish them openly. Those which persistently fail to submit their accounts on time can be fined not more than $5,000.

2 Town councils must notify the public and the Ministry of National Development of changes to key personnel, such as chairman, general manager or finance manager, within 30 days. They must put up notices in the estate and online. Currently, they need to publish a notice only in the Government Gazette on the changes "as soon as it is practicable".

3 Town councillors, committee members, town council staff, or anyone delegated with responsibilities must declare conflicts of interest. The town council secretary is to keep a register of all such disclosures. If he does not, he can be fined not more than $5,000.

4 The ministry can take investigative and enforcement action in the case of potential regulatory breaches or systemic weaknesses in a town council. It may conduct periodic compliance reviews, and issue orders for remedial action, among other things. As a last resort, the minister may put the town council under "official management" - this means all town council members are suspended from office unless otherwise indicated - if the "health or safety of the residents is under threat".

5 Easier handover of town councils between political parties after elections. The minister can set rules, like ordering a town council to give information to the party taking over.

6 Town councils must set up a Lift Replacement Fund for lift-related replacement and upgrading works. More details, such as minimum contribution rates, will be set out in subsidiary legislation.

New law to reduce woes of town council handover
Minister can set out rules for post-election transfers, ensuring more seamless transition
By Toh Yong Chuan, Manpower Correspondent, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

The pain and problems of handing over a town council when constituencies change hands between political parties after an election will be reduced, under a new law passed in Parliament yesterday.

The amended Town Councils Act will let the Minister for National Development set out rules for post-election transfers, including ordering the outgoing town council to provide financial accounts information to the incoming team.

"A smooth changeover of town councils ensures continuity in services to residents," Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee said yesterday as he wrapped up the debate on the Town Councils (Amendment) Bill.

The changes give legal teeth to guidelines on handovers found in a guidebook drawn up by the National Development Ministry in 2013 and circulated before the 2015 General Election, Mr Lee added.

He was replying to Dr Teo Ho Pin (Bukit Panjang) and Mr Zainal Sapari (Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC), who had asked for clear rules and procedures as well as a deadline to be set for town councils to comply with in a handover.

Mr Zainal, in calling for greater guidance, crossed swords with four Workers' Party MPs - Mr Low Thia Khiang, Ms Sylvia Lim and Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) as well as Mr Png Eng Huat (Hougang) - when he dwelt at length on obstacles in the handover of single-seat Punggol East. The People's Action Party (PAP) lost the constituency to the WP in a by-election in January 2013 but wrested it back in the 2015 General Election.



The constituency's management then shifted from the WP-run Aljunied-Hougang Town Council (AHTC) to the PAP's Pasir Ris-Punggol Town Council (PRPTC).

Mr Zainal, chairman of PRPTC, lamented: "It was unfortunate the poor practices and failure of compliance by AHTC then 'contaminated' the entire set of accounts for the whole of PRPTC, through no fault of our own."

Mr Singh, the chairman of AHTC, countered that Mr Zainal could have raised the matter with him but chose not to. Ms Lim and Mr Low bristled at his reference to an auditor's report on the AHTC.

Last November, independent auditors KPMG identified "systemic difficulties" when it reviewed the town council's books.

But was there a finding of criminal intent in the report? asked Mr Low and Ms Lim.

Each time, Mr Zainal said it was a matter for the authorities to decide.

Mr Lee and House Speaker Halimah Yacob put a stop to the arguments, saying the debate was on the principles of the Bill and not the details of specific cases.

Weighing in, Mr Charles Chong (Punggol East) accused the WP of dragging its feet on the handover, saying: "The Government will be remiss in its duty to Singaporeans if it allowed what happened to Punggol East to ever happen again."

But the key to a "seamless transition" is the willingness of both sides to cooperate on the transfer of assets and information, said Mr Lee.

He also said the law has been kept broad to give the parties room to resolve issues. "Not every detail can be anticipated," he added.

He said the ministry will step in if there are irreconcilable differences of opinion.

In an impasse, the minister "can require an outgoing town council to furnish the necessary information" to the incoming team, he added.

PAP gets back $4 million in funds owed to Punggol East
By Danson Cheong, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

The People's Action Party (PAP) may have won back Punggol East from the Workers' Party in the 2015 General Election, but it got back the full sum of the single-member constituency's (SMC) funds only on Thursday after a lawyer's letter was sent.

The WP-run Aljunied-Hougang Town Council (AHTC) paid the Pasir Ris-Punggol Town Council (PRPTC) about $4 million - the final payment of over $24 million owed to PRPTC in the handover.

PRPTC announced the $4 million payment in a statement hours before the House debated the Town Council (Amendment) Bill.

It received $20 million from AHTC earlier.

On Tuesday, it sent AHTC a letter of demand for the remainder.

PRPTC also said it received the financial statements, the third set submitted by AHTC, on Feb 24 - 15 months after the handover on Nov 30, 2015.

The first two sets were withdrawn by AHTC after discrepancies were identified, it said.

Last October, the Court of Appeal had ordered AHTC to hand over all financial documents related to Punggol East to the PRPTC - the culmination of a dispute over documents needed to review the SMC's accounts.

PRPTC said it had also notified AHTC its demand is "without prejudice" to PRPTC's right to recover any other amounts that may be due.

Accountability wins the day after back-and-forth
By Janice Heng, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

Twice during the four-hour debate on changes to the Town Councils Act, Speaker Halimah Yacob had to remind MPs that the purpose of the Bill's passage through the House was not to debate specific issues, but the general principles of the proposed legislation.

She said so about 80 minutes into the debate, and again about an hour later, after several MPs began to get caught up in details and events that, arguably, served as the cause for why the Act needed to be refreshed with tighter or new measures.

These included what occurred when the single-seat Punggol East changed hands - first after the Workers' Party (WP) won it in a 2013 by-election, and then when the People's Action Party (PAP) won it back in the 2015 General Election.

Granted, the details and recollections of what transpired in the aftermath of these changes - the need to account for and transfer assets, the pace at which these took place and so on - are useful for illustrating broad points such as the need for efficiency, transparency and accountability.

Pasir Ris-Punggol Town Council (PRPTC) chairman Zainal Sapari, in recalling aspects of the handover after Punggol East came under his town council, said the inclusion of unaudited financial statements - from when the WP held the constituency - compromised PRPTC's accounts as a whole, for FY2015/2016.

He suggested allowing town councils to keep two separate financial accounts, pending the submission of "unqualified audited financial statements" of the constituency being taken over.

While such details add useful context to the debate and some of the proposed changes, others were, perhaps, less necessary.

When Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC) and Mr Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) rose separately to respond to Mr Zainal's remarks, the exchange got mired in minutiae, such as the data that the WP originally gave the PAP being in the wrong file format.

There was also a back-and-forth over a comment which Mr Zainal cited from an academic, which saw Ms Lim and WP chief and fellow Aljunied GRC MP Low Thia Khiang challenge Mr Zainal on the question of whether independent auditors KPMG had uncovered anything criminal in their audits.

That parts of the debate yesterday on the Town Councils (Amendment) Bill drifted away and became, at times, a finger-pointing exercise, distracted from what was an important piece of legislation - some four years in the making, and which involved several rounds of public consultations, including with town councils.

Indeed, Senior Minister of State for National Development Desmond Lee pointed out that the debate had gone off course - an observation that Madam Halimah agreed with.

The danger of debates veering off course is that more pertinent questions are missed.

But with the intervention and steady direction provided by Madam Halimah, the debate thankfully stayed on track.

And in doing so, the House was able to address other practical and no less important aspects, such as how to handle disputes between statutory boards and town councils.

There was broad agreement on the Bill's intent - even if the WP opposed the provision on oversight.

But it was heartening in the end that MPs on both sides of the House affirmed the ideals behind the Bill, such as the need for accountability and dealing with issues of conflicts of interest. Given how the changes will affect most Singaporeans, it was important that the debate concentrated on worthwhile and concrete outcomes.

MND flags issues with AHTC FY2015 accounts
Ministry seeking clarifications of financial statements from WP-run town council
By Nur Asyiqin Mohamad Salleh, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

The Ministry of National Development (MND) yesterday flagged several issues with financial statements submitted by the Aljunied-Hougang Town Council (AHTC).

The town council's external auditor had raised several instances where the AHTC's statements for the 2015 financial year failed to comply with the Town Councils Act and Town Councils Financial Rules, the ministry said in a statement.

It did not disclose what these instances of non-compliance were, but noted the auditor had similarly flagged the AHTC's financial statements for its 2014 financial year.

The MND has sought clarifications from the Workers' Party-run AHTC and will present the finalised financial statements to Parliament upon receiving them, it said.

The ministry's statement comes a day before Parliament debates changes to the Town Councils Act that will give the Government greater oversight over town councils.

The ministry also noted that this is the fifth year that the AHTC's external auditor has qualified its financial statements.

The AHTC submitted the statements on Feb 24, and sent in accompanying documents the subsequent week - six months after the deadline on Aug 31, said the MND.

It was the fourth time the statements were late since the Workers' Party won Aljunied GRC in May 2011. The AHTC submitted statements for the 2014 financial year on time.

The ministry also laid out a brief timeline related to the submissions. On Aug 12 last year, the AHTC wrote to the MND requesting an extension for the submissions, citing "outstanding issues to resolve with its auditor", the ministry said.

Over the next few months, the MND repeatedly asked the AHTC for a timeframe of when its audit for financial year 2015 would be completed. But the AHTC could not give a firm reply on the timeline, nor the exact reasons for the delays, it said.

Responding in a statement yesterday, AHTC chairman Pritam Singh said the town council has explained the reasons for its late submission to the ministry. He also said the AHTC recently called a public tender for an internal auditor, "to ensure compliance with the Town Councils Act and the Town Councils Financial Rules on an ongoing basis".

However, the town council did not receive any submissions from accounting firms in Singapore. Mr Singh said it will call a second tender and put its statements for FY2015 on its website after it has addressed the issues raised by the MND.

Related
Town Councils (Amendment) Bill 2017 2nd Reading Speech By SMS Desmond Lee -10 Mar 2017
Town Councils (Amendment) Bill 2017 Round-Up Speech By SMS Desmond Lee -10 Mar 2017
MND: Aljunied-Hougang Town Council’s FY2015 Financial Statements -9 Mar 2017

'Pervasive' lapses found in Workers' Party town council accounts; Some lapses may amount to criminal conduct: KPMG
AMK Town Council general manager under CPIB probe
Workers' Party town council lapses detailed in KPMG report; AHTC to transfer sinking funds for Punggol East in instalments
Workers' Party town council managing agent FMSS has been "grossly profiteering" off AHPETC: MND
AGO Audit of Workers' Party-run town council FY2012-13 accounts flags major lapses

Govt eases some property cooling measures, cutting sellers' stamp duty and slightly relaxing TDSR rules from 11 March 2017

March 12, 2017, 7:10 am

≫ Next: Chiam See Tong sets up sports foundation for children

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Property stocks pick up as some curbs are eased
Seller's stamp duty tweaked; easier for some to borrow money against their property
By Wong Siew Ying, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

In a surprise move, the Government has eased some residential property curbs for the first time since imposing a raft of measures from 2009 - sparking a modest rally among real estate stocks.

The "calibrated adjustments" to the seller's stamp duty (SSD) and total debt servicing ratio (TDSR) unveiled yesterday came amid fairly solid demand for homes and after three years of falling home prices.

While the main curbs keeping the market in check - such as the additional buyer's stamp duty (ABSD) and the loan to value (LTV) limit - remained intact, industry players and home buyers saw the latest moves as positive.

The SSD, which has been paid on homes sold within four years of being purchased, will now apply for only three years. The SSD rate will also be cut by four percentage points.

Home owners selling within one year will pay 12 per cent instead of 16 per cent, moving down to 4 per cent instead of 8 per cent for sales by the third year.

These SSD changes apply to homes purchased from today (11 March 2017).

Financial consultant Sanjay Ashok Wadhwani said: "I don't think the SSD changes will affect me so much. As a buyer, the ABSD and LTV would have a bigger impact, but those were not changed."

Others, like Dr Lee Nai Jia, head of South-east Asia research at Edmund Tie and Company, said the impact would be muted, though more units may be sold this year.

The Government also relaxed a rule under the TDSR - designed to prevent borrowers from over-extending themselves - on loans where owners borrow against their residential property.

If a home owner's total outstanding loans are 50 per cent or below of his property's value, the TDSR will no longer apply.

"This allows for greater flexibility by borrowers to monetise their properties, preventing the need for a distressed sale in the event of economic hardship," Credit Suisse said in a report yesterday.

The Real Estate Developers' Association of Singapore noted: "The adjustments will provide some relief and help to address the needs of some borrowers."

While the announcement brings cheer to many segments of the property market, analysts said the tweaks are unlikely to have a big impact and are not a bid to spur the sluggish housing market on the Government's part.

"Adjusting the SSD has the least impact on the property market. It does not change the availability of credit or liquidity, nor the cost of acquisition," said Mr Nicholas Mak, head of research and consultancy at SLP International.

The SSD and TDSR were among a raft of cooling measures imposed since 2009 to cool a then red-hot market. But the retention of the ABSD and other loan curbs is seen as necessary to maintain a more sustainable property market.

"While the growth in outstanding housing loans has moderated, it is prudent for households to further build up their financial buffers to protect against future interest rate increases or any losses in income," the Government said, in upholding other measures.

Even though most of the cooling measures stay firmly in place, the optimism from the adjustments in SSD and TDSR sent the benchmark FTSE ST Real Estate Index surging yesterday, up 1.35 per cent to close at a level not seen since July 2015.

Stamp duty tweak may give market a fillip
But analysts expect impact of lower rates property sellers have to pay to be muted
By Lee Xin En, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

Some property analysts expect a modest boost in home sales here after the change in the seller's stamp duty (SSD) rules that take effect today. However, realtor Kelvin Thong narrowly missed out on benefiting from the changes. He exercised his option to purchase a penthouse in West Coast yesterday.

That means he is still subject to the rules which stipulate that if he sells his property within a year, he would have to pay a 16 per cent SSD. If he sells it within two years, it would be 12 per cent, while within three years, it would be 8 per cent and within four years, it would be 4 per cent.

For properties purchased from today, the rates are lower and apply only to sales within three years. That means someone who buys a property today pays only 12 per cent SSD if the property is sold within a year, 8 per cent if sold within two years and 4 per cent within three years.

Mr Thong is not too disappointed as he intends to live in his home over the long term, but "would have liked the flexibility to upgrade or sell earlier without paying the stamp duty", he said.

However, he said he was now more motivated to hunt for a good second property to invest in.

"The 4 percentage point cut in SSD is quite significant. If I manage to get a property at 30 per cent below market price, I would be able to make an 18 per cent profit even after paying the 12 per cent stamp duty if I hold it for less than a year."

People like Mr Thong may boost new home sales, but analysts think the impact will be muted.

Dr Lee Nai Jia, head of South-east Asia research at Edmund Tie and Company, said he would add an additional 3 per cent to his initial forecast of 8,000 private new home sales this year.

The move gives "positive vibes to the market". "It gives the signal that the market is bottoming, which will attract more buyers," he added.

ERA key executive officer Eugene Lim does not expect property prices to rise. "There is still abundant supply in the residential property market and the additional buyer's stamp duty rates and loan to value limits remain unchanged."

Analysts feel that the SSD tweak is targeted at those who may be finding it difficult to service their loan amid the slowing economy.

Ms Christine Li, director of research at Cushman & Wakefield, said that the SSD tweak is timely.

She noted that SSD's intent was to prevent property speculation, but the additional buyer's stamp duty and total debt servicing framework are now much stronger deterrents against speculators compared with the SSD, she said.

"On the flip side, SSD can potentially hit home owners whose circumstances may change due to unforeseen events really hard," she said, as they may have to sell their properties at a loss due to sluggish demand, and have to fork out SSD.

Citing Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore data, Ms Li said that SSD was applied to 550 deals in 2015, up from 519 in 2014. Most were not profitable, particularly among those with holding periods of less than three years, she said.

Borrowing money against property easier now for retirees
By Lee Xin En, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

The Government is relaxing loan limit rules for anyone wanting to borrow money using their residential property as collateral.

It is tweaking the total debt servicing ratio (TDSR) framework which stipulates that all of a borrower's debt repayments - including mortgage, credit cards and car loans - should not top 60 per cent of monthly income.

The move is set to help retirees, along with others wanting to cash out using the value of their home.

To date, the TDSR has applied to drawing down loans against the value of a home - known as mortgage equity withdrawal loans.

Under the change, the TDSR will no longer apply to such loans where the ratio of the loans, including any existing loans, to the property's value is 50 per cent or less. For example, a person with a $1 million home and a $100,000 outstanding housing loan can borrow up to $400,000 - that is, up to half the $1 million value of the property.

Under the old rules, he would also need to have ensured that his total debt servicing did not exceed 60 per cent of his monthly income, but this is no longer applicable. However, if the person in this example wants to borrow more than $400,000, he would not be exempt from TDSR.

The Government said in a press statement yesterday that "some borrowers have given feedback that the TDSR framework has limited their flexibility to monetise their properties in their retirement years".

"The Monetary Authority of Singapore will therefore relax the rules to meet such needs," it added.

Mr David Baey, head of mortgages at MoneySmart.sg, said that the number of such loans has been very small to date, at about one to two of every 100 loans he negotiates.

Such borrowers tend to use the loans to start businesses, send their children overseas for studies, or to make other investments such as stocks, he added.

Mr Desmond Sim, head of CBRE Research for Singapore and Southeast Asia, said the change would "likely promote property purchases only by asset-rich individuals", which are a small portion of property owners.

A DBS spokesman said the move gives home owners, especially the semi-retired or business owners, an added option to generate cash flow.

"A mortgage equity withdrawal loan is still a mid- to long-term financial commitment which requires monthly loan repayments. Home owners need to fully understand their needs and think how they will be using this increased cash flow," he added.

New stamp duty for property-holding entities from 11 March 2017
By Wong Siew Ying, The Straits Times, 11 Mar 2017

The Government has taken swift legislative action to bring the stamp duty rate in the transfer of equity stakes in property-holding entities in line with the rate applying to regular property deals.

A new stamp duty - called additional conveyance duties (ACD) - will be levied on the purchase and sale of residential real estate in property-holding entities with effect from today.

The new tax is aimed at entities - including firms, trusts and partnerships - that hold at least 50 per cent of its total tangible assets in residential properties here.

In a rare move, the Stamp Duty Amendment Bill was read and passed in Parliament in one day owing to the market-sensitive nature of the announcement.

"The motivation for this Bill is not to raise revenue... but the motivation for doing this is to remove the existing differential in the stamp duty rates," said Second Finance Minister Lawrence Wong in Parliament yesterday.

Previously, a direct purchase of residential property attracted buyer's stamp duty of 3 per cent, and depending on the buyer's citizenship, up to 15 per cent additional buyer's stamp duty (ABSD).

However, acquiring equity interest of a holding firm which owns the property incurred a share duty tax of just 0.2 per cent of the firm's net asset value, prior to ACD.

Similarly, the seller's stamp duty applying to the sale of residential property within a stipulated holding period, also did not apply to selling stakes of a holding firm.

To better align the rates, the Government will impose the ACD on buyers and sellers who are significant owners. For buyers, on top of the 0.2 per cent share duty tax, they must pay ACD comprising 1 to 3 per cent on the value of underlying residential properties and a flat 15 per cent on the value of those assets.

Sellers, who are significant owners, disposing of their equity stake within three years of acquisition will have to pay a flat 12 per cent levy. The ACD does not affect ordinary share transactions in listed companies by retail investors.

The disparity in stamp duty rate was often seen by consultants as a loophole, allowing some developers to use innovative ways to escape hefty qualifying certificate extension charges on unsold homes.

"We will see fewer deals involving share sales of property-holding companies. The ACD will push up transaction cost of such deals and will weigh on the buyer's return on investment," noted International Property Advisor key executive officer Ku Swee Yong.

Related
Joint Press Release on Measures Relating to Residential Property -10 Mar 2017
Second Reading Speech By Second Minister For Finance Lawrence Wong On The Stamp Duties (Amendment) Bill 2017 -10 Mar 2017

Chiam See Tong sets up sports foundation for children

March 12, 2017, 7:50 am

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Needy kids get help to play sport
Foundation by ex-opposition leader Chiam, a former sportsman, starts off with $70,000
By Pearl Lee, The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

Veteran opposition politician Chiam See Tong yesterday launched a sports foundation in his name, to encourage young children from disadvantaged backgrounds to participate in sport.

Named the Chiam See Tong Sports Foundation, it is starting with an initial kitty of about $70,000, made up of contributions from the Chiam family, as well as donations from the board.

His wife Lina told the media at the launch, held at the Old Parliament House, that the idea to set up a sports foundation came about six months ago, in part inspired by Singapore swim star Joseph Schooling's historic Olympic gold.

"Mr Chiam has always been keen in sports," said Lina Chiam, adding that in his younger days, Chiam, who turns 82 on Sunday, was a keen sportsman who swam and played badminton.

"Now that he is not active in Parliament...we were thinking we can do something for the people, for the under-resourced children."



Chiam See Tong, who spent 27 years as an MP in Potong Pasir before he was defeated in Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC in the 2011 general election, also thanked the audience for supporting the foundation, which is now working on getting registered as a charity.

He also presented boots to 15 footballers from Pekik - a team formed by boys who live in an estate of rental units in Jalan Kukoh.

The launch was attended by Singapore National Olympic Council secretary-general Chris Chan, one of his predecessors S.S. Dhillon, Paralympians Yip Pin Xiu and Theresa Goh, as well as former national sprinter U.K. Shyam.

Said Chan: "I was touched to know that Mr Chiam has a heart for the sporting community.

"Despite his health, he made the effort to come here to present the boots to the boys."

The foundation will focus on helping school-going children, with a target of at least 100 beneficiaries in its first year, said former national swimmer Ang Peng Siong, who serves as chairman of the foundation's board.

Apart from financial aid, the foundation will also organise networking events for aspiring athletes to meet accomplished sportspeople, he added.

Details of how the funds will be disbursed, as well as the eligibility criteria for beneficiaries, are currently unavailable. But a 24-hour swimathon fund-raiser is in the works, said Ang.

He hopes to get Mr Chiam, who has suffered two strokes, swimming as well. "Mr Chiam... we want to encourage him to get back in the water too... at least swim one lap."

A life of service is a life worth swiping

March 12, 2017, 8:39 am

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It's not all about you, you of the digital generation. Service to others is key to a fulfilled life.
By Tan Chin Hwee, Published The Straits Times, 10 Mar 2017

In today's highly competitive Singapore, many high-fliers want to achieve - but my question for them is: Who are you achieving for and what are you truly leaving behind?

Many of us today, especially among the younger generation, have the mentality that to achieve "success" (defined in your own eyes - be it status, money or position), you put yourself first - some of you even do this subconsciously without realising it's always about what's best for you.

Let me ask you: Which is the most successful sports team?

Answer: The most successful sports team in the professional era is not the New York Yankees, or Manchester United, but a team from a far less well-known sport. It is the New Zealand All Blacks in rugby, who have an astonishing 86 per cent winning percentage and numerous championships to their name.

How are they able to do it? Especially since they are from a country with such a small population, similar in size to us. Even less well known is the concept of "sweep the shed". It is a selfless ethos of how each All Black player, no matter how famous, has to humbly sweep the locker room after each game. This is the foundation of an All Black - serving others before self. Character and discipline triumph over talent.

In an era of self-entitlement, we should not forget the key element of true achievement. Talent and discipline are important. But so is humility.

Humility is not about bowing or appearing servile before your superiors. It's about performing little acts of service for your company, your team, your family, and your country daily.

What are acts of service? Taking out the trash, helping to put back your bowls and plates after a meal at the hawker centre, and deeper acts of commitment such as volunteering weekly and helping a colleague out at work when you don't need to.

I cannot blame today's youth for being selfish: I was probably like you too as I pushed myself up the career ladder. I want to share with you my personal journey so you can take in my observations with your own set of experiences and life goals.

At 29 years old, I was already running a small proprietary credit desk at a local bank. By my mid-30s, I had learnt how to manage winning teams and set up regional offices from scratch for two large US companies - from buying coffee powder to laying T1 lines.

The wake-up call came with the premature birth of my daughter. That forced my wife and me to recalibrate our lives, and reminded us of the things that really matter to us. We had both been involved with social work since university and we revisited this first love with more fervour. We took time to re-forge deeper family and personal relationships (simple commitments such as having a meal with family members every weekend). I also spent time nurturing talent and investing in the lives of young people.

One of the first things I did at my office in the new multinational company was to send a company-wide e-mail to instruct my colleagues to wash their own cups and not wait for the cleaners to do so. I have made similar decisions in US companies; but this time there were a lot more colleagues and they were from very diverse backgrounds. The question "What would my colleagues, especially the traders, think?" did cross my mind for three seconds - but discipline and humility are key attributes which I really wanted to encourage, so I got over my brief hesitation.

Sweeping the shed can start from the office and at school and should continue at home.

It's the little acts of service that will truly matter at the end of the day. A word of encouragement to your family. A smile for a service personnel. Spending time (not on your phones or on social media) with good friends and meeting them face-to-face. Being kind to yourself.

"How can I serve?" and "How can I give?" are questions I do not hear often from young people. Perhaps it's time to ask a little more, do a little more, give a little more. I learnt from my kind-hearted neighbour who asks every morning "Who can I bless today?"

You need to be part of something bigger than yourself. If you want higher performance, begin with a higher purpose. At your age, you can do a lot, especially with other youth - focusing on technology and financial literacy. How about teaching computer coding at a study centre or teaching financial literacy to kids in a neighbourhood school?

What if I told you that this is the secret to true sustainable and meaningful success? To live a purposeful life.

That in addition to making meaningful impact in whatever cause or field you choose, material successes will also naturally come - not because you seek them, but because you will then naturally act and apply your life with a passion and selflessness to much bigger things beyond your own narrow ambition?

And that in so doing, you will find joy - and realise that work can equal life - and that a life worth living for is a life worth dying for?

Take Tinder, for instance. The dating app is a microcosm and encapsulation of this world we live in, where everything is a transaction. This is what we have come to - where we debase and simplify the value of humans and real relationships into a simple left or right swipe, where instant gratification - my gratification - is the name of the game. Where it becomes easy to attach points or value to people based purely on what? Looks? Surface attributes? Where everything is a game, a game where you selfishly are in charge of your gratification - because it is always just about you, right? So that's the new normal: You swipe left or right.

Today we have lost much of our face-to-face interactions. The art, beauty and importance of real human conversations have been lost to this faceless online facade. We have forgotten how to engage each other, and to some extent how to truly understand, empathise and love each other.

Don't get me wrong, I am a strong believer in technology and the private logistics company I work for is effectively a technology backbone; we spent about US$280 million (S$397 million) on IT development in 2016 alone.

Yes, you may think this transactional culture is localised to only specific things like the Tinder app - but no - we are the most networked generation and yet many of us are lonelier these days.

Dear readers, do not let this happen to you. As I said at the start, dedicate your life and your livelihood to a cause greater than yourself - find it for yourself - whatever it is to you. Each of you have unique gifts, talents, personalities; each of you have much to contribute and serve the world with.

I challenge you to really think about what matters to you beyond all the noise and clutter and striving for success the world throws at you, and think of a life worth living.

This is a life worth swiping for.


The writer is the Asia-Pacific CEO of a global company and an adjunct professor at several universities. He was on the founding advisory committee for the Volunteer Youth Corps.

This article is adapted from a speech delivered to young adult leaders at a recent National Youth Council event.