Public Forum On The Penal Code Amendments

By Eric Tan

In Nov 2006, the government floated a draft Penal Code Amendment Bill and
called for public comment. The Penal Code reflects our rights and responsibilities living
in Singapore. Despite the tremendous significance of the Penal Code in guiding the way
Singaporeans order their daily lives, the government has given little explanation for the proposals so far.

In line with the Workers’ Party’s concern with justice and the rule of law since the Party’s
foundation in 1957, the Party will be holding a public forum on the topic: “Amendments to the Penal Code – Why We Should Be Concerned”.
The details are as follows:

What will be covered:

The forum will cover some key concerns about the draft Bill such as the proposed changes to punishments and
sentencing options, provisions regarding sexual crime and aspects omitted by the draft Bill. Views from the
public are also sought so as to give comprehensive input for debate about crime issues and for decision-making.

The speakers at the Forum will be:

• Ms Sylvia Lim, Chairman, Workers’ Party and Non-Constituency Member of Parliament. Ms Lim has law enforcement and criminal defence experience, and now teaches and writes about law and procedure.
• Mr Firuz Khan, Member, Workers’ Party Youth Wing Executive Committee. Firuz graduated from the University of Birmingham with Masters of Business Administration in International Business. He has been working in several industries including the social service sector. During the course of his work he manages children, family and domestic violence cases.

Guest Speakers:

• Mr Thomas Koshy, a lawyer in private practice of 10 years’ standing with experience in criminal litigation.
• Mr Anthony Yeo, a Consultant Therapist of Counselling and Care Centre with 35 years of experience in the field of psychological counselling including marital counselling.  He is author of over 10 books on marriage, counselling and stress as well as being consultant to various government and non-government organizations.

Who should attend:

All citizens concerned about criminal justice and having a balanced approach towards law and order.

Those interested are requested to come early as we have limited places.

Media queries on the forum can be directed to Ms Glenda Han at glenda@wp.sg

ERIC TAN
TREASURER, WORKERS’ PARTY
CHAIRMAN, 50TH ANNIVERSARY COMMITTEE