Written Answers to WP's Oral Questions
Ms He Ting Ru
Companies That Have Retrenched Employees Without Mandatory Retrenchment Notification Of Authorities
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Manpower since the start of 2025 (a) how many companies have failed to inform the Ministry before they started retrenching their employees; (b) whether an online travel booking platform is one of such companies that failed to inform the Ministry; and (c) what actions were taken by the Ministry in these cases of non-compliance of the Mandatory Retrenchment Notification.
Dr Tan See Leng: To recap, it was reported in September 2025 that Agoda had carried out a retrenchment exercise in early August 2025.
Agoda complied with the requirement for all employers with 10 or more employees to submit a Mandatory Retrenchment Notification (MRN) to the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) within 5 working days after informing affected employees of their retrenchment. Employers are not required to submit an MRN before retrenching workers. This strikes a balance between allowing employers sufficient time to finalise their decisions and collate the required information for submission, while still allowing for the prompt provision of career facilitation services and programmes to assist the affected workers. Nonetheless, NTUC has proposed for the Government to consider advance notification of retrenchment.
Impact Of NUS' Five-Day Work-From-Office Policy On Talent Acquisition
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry was approached by the National University of Singapore or any affected parties such as faculty or administrative staff for assistance with the new five-day work-from-office policy; (b) if so, what guidance was given; and (c) what is the Ministry’s assessment on whether such policies will affect talent acquisition policies of the university and the broader sector.
Mr Desmond Lee: As with other Autonomous Universities, the National University of Singapore (NUS) has autonomy in human resource matters, including workplace arrangements. The Ministry of Education (MOE) has received feedback from NUS staff on the work-from-office policy, which we have asked NUS to look into and provide appropriate support. NUS has stated that it still offers flexible work arrangements for specific job roles.
Multiple factors affect talent attraction and retention. There is no one-size-fits-all approach as organisations adopt workplace policies that balance operational needs and staff requirements.
Learning Points From Discontinued Marine Parade Shuttle Bus Trial
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth what are the learning points from the discontinued free Marine Parade shuttle bus trial that will be applied to future assessments of Community Development Council funds disbursements for free or discounted transport offerings.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: Mr Speaker, I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association. Community Development Council (CDC) funds support community programmes that help and benefit the community, strengthen the social glue, build a more compassionate society and foster community bonding.
In response to feedback from residents for last mile connectivity, the Marine Parade shuttle bus service was launched as a pilot by the Grassroots Organisations (GROs) of the Marine Parade Town Cluster to address the needs.
The majority of the funding for the shuttle bus pilot came from donations raised by the GROs, supplemented by a $200,000 seed grant provided by the South East CDC.
Learning points from the pilot include the fact that some routes experienced higher usage than others across different time periods due to varying needs of residents in different locations. The data collected from the usage patterns were useful. Adjustments were made, taking the usage data and feedback into consideration; bus frequencies were adjusted and one of the routes was discontinued earlier this year. The GROs will continue to adopt this approach of piloting, adapting and reviewing how to deploy resources to best serve resident needs.
Marine Parade GRC Grassroots Advisers have studied the detailed findings from the operations, and have decided to terminate the shuttle bus and to deploy resources in a more targeted manner to meet the connectivity needs of residents across Marine Parade. More details will be announced soon.
Mr Kenneth Tiong
Efforts At Minimising Practice Of Roads Being Resurfaced Or Re-Excavated For Different Works
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) in each of the past three years, how many kilometres of resurfaced roads were re excavated and what was the estimated cost to taxpayers; (b) what binding powers does the Road Opening Coordination Committee hold to compel a consolidated dig-once schedule; and (c) why is the Common Services Tunnel model not applicable to new HDB towns and major redevelopment zones.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The Land Transport Authority (LTA) imposes a “no-opening” moratorium of one year on newly resurfaced roads to minimise abortive works and inconvenience to stakeholders. However, when there are emergency requests from utility service providers to reopen newly resurfaced roads to supply utility services, LTA will exercise flexibility. There is no additional cost to taxpayers for such re excavation works. The respective utility service providers are responsible for the full cost of the works, including any road resurfacing or re-excavation required to maintain their networks.
At times, due to the extensive and interconnected utility networks beneath the roads, works need to be carried out in stages. The Road Opening Coordination Committee (ROCC), chaired by LTA, does not direct the implementation of road works, but facilitates the coordination of works across government agencies and utility service providers.
Where feasible, we deploy solutions to facilitate maintenance without repeated road excavations. Both Common Services Tunnels (CSTs) and other solutions such as Utilities Specific Ducts (USDs) achieve this purpose by consolidating and allowing easier access to utility infrastructure such as water pipes, electrical cables and telecommunication cables. CSTs are large tunnels which allow inspection and maintenance throughout the tunnel, and are suited for areas with high infrastructure loads, such as the Marina Bay area. USDs are smaller ducts, and are more suitable for the needs of HDB estates. That said, there may be areas where CSTs and USDs cannot be deployed due to cost and site-specific constraints.
Reclassification Of Protected Species’ Status Of Wildlife Animals That Have Caused Repeated Economic Damage To Private Property
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for National Development (a) under what conditions will the protected species’ status of wildlife animal be reconsidered when it causes repeated economic damage to private property; (b) what criteria are used to classify an animal as a pest animal; and (c) whether otters meet such criteria.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: Protected wildlife species listed under the Wildlife Act are identified based on criteria such as their national conservation status, whether they are native to Singapore, and international conservation frameworks such as the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). For instance, otters are designated as protected wildlife species as they are native to Singapore and listed in CITES.
NParks also assesses factors such as the risk to public safety and health, and disamenities, to guide its approach to wildlife management. To manage human-otter conflicts, NParks works closely with community partners like the Otter Working Group, which includes government agencies, academic experts and members of the nature community. We have jointly developed measures, such as trapping and relocating otters away from areas of intensified human-otter conflict, cordoning off areas where adult otters may display protective behaviour in the presence of young otters, and using olfactory irritants to guide otters away from residential areas.
Considerations When Allocating Counsellors To Schools
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Education (a) given counsellor allocation relies on reported caseloads, how does the Ministry distinguish genuinely low need from demand suppressed by limited counsellor access; (b) what prospective metrics identify unmet need; and (c) are educators' own mental health needs incorporated in the allocation.
Mr Desmond Lee: The caseloads refer to students engaged by the school counsellors. The mental well-being of school personnel is supported through dedicated programmes separate from school counselling services and hence does not affect school counsellor allocation.
Schools use a number of indicators to assess the counselling needs of students. Besides referrals from students and teachers, they also monitor their students' social emotional and mental well-being through termly check-ins to identify those requiring support. These indicators are not dependent on the extent of access to school counsellors.
When schools detect increased counselling needs, they can augment their counselling capacity by engaging additional flexi-adjunct school counsellors. Beyond schools, the Ministry of Education (MOE) also taps on whole-of-government efforts to support youth mental health, with students having access to community resources such as Response, Early intervention and Assessment in Community mental Health (REACH) teams, in-person services like CHAT, CREST-Youth and community helplines such as the national mindline 1771, SOS and Tinkle friend. As part of the CCE curriculum, students learn about these avenues of support for their mental well being.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Consideration Of Attendance At Drug Rehabilitation Centre During Fit And Proper Assessment For Career In Financial Services Industry
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance whether an individual who has attended the Drug Rehabilitation Centre will be regarded as not meeting the fit and proper criteria for a career in the financial services industry.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): Admission into the Drug Rehabilitation Centre does not automatically disqualify an individual from a career in the financial services industry.
MAS’ “Guidelines on Fit and Proper Criteria” sets out what it means to be fit and proper for persons carrying out activities regulated by MAS. Under the guidelines, financial institutions making a hiring decision on an individual with a past record should take into account, among other considerations, the seriousness and circumstances of past conduct, time elapsed, as well as the roles and responsibilities to be assumed by the individual. Financial institutions will also include their own selection requirements, such as adequacy of experience, academic qualifications, and skillsets for the role being considered.
Impact Of HDB Resale Prices On Process Of Valuing Land For BTO Flats
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether the Chief Valuer applies a discount or multiplier to resale transactions used as comparables when valuing land for Build-To-Order flats; and (b) if so, what is the average factor for (i) Standard (ii) Plus and (iii) Prime projects respectively.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The Housing Development Board (HDB) pays fair market value when it purchases State Land for Build-To-Order (BTO) flats. The fair market value is determined by the Chief Valuer, an independent professional office, using established valuation principles no different from that of other professional valuers. This includes referencing relevant resale flat transactions and considering site-specific attributes and resale conditions.
The issue of land cost should not be conflated with the issue of pricing for BTO flats, be they Standard, Plus, or Prime flats. The land cost is the amount paid by HDB for the land. This is different from the flat price, which is what the BTO flat buyer pays HDB for the unit. BTO flat pricing is based on affordability, not cost.
Data On "Cut And Fill" Approach To Reassign COE Quotas And Further Medium-Term Plans To Equalise Supply
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Acting Minister for Transport with regard to the “cut-and-fill” approach to reassign COE quota supply (a) from May 2023 till to date, how many quotas have been reassigned from guaranteed deregistrations of 5-year non-extendable COEs and the standard 10-year COEs; and (b) whether the Ministry has any further medium-term plans to equalise the COE supply across years to eliminate the peak-and-trough cycle of COE prices.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: Since May 2023, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) redistributed and injected a total of 30,813 COEs across the COE categories. We will continue to monitor the COE supply to ensure it is stable.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik
Feeder Bus Service For Compassvale Crescent Residents
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Acting Minister for Transport whether LTA will consider introducing a feeder bus service to serve Compassvale Crescent as some residents will need to travel more than 400 metres to reach the nearest bus stop.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: We had addressed similar questions on 12 November 2024 and 4 February 2025. There is no change in our assessment.
Managing Usage, Hogging And Cost Of EV Charging Stations At Public Car Parks
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what strategies are in place to manage usage and reduce hogging at public carparks with limited EV charging stations; and (b) whether a cost review is underway, given the disparity between public EV charging rates and home electricity tariffs.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: We monitor the charger utilisation rates closely and where there is growing demand, we will work with charging operators to scale up deployment, electrical capacity permitting. To deter lot hogging, EVCOs have implemented idle fees at several charging locations, especially those with high demand. The operators determine charging prices, which is dependent on demand, location and charger power rating.
Diplomatic Relations With Syria And Opportunities For Trade, Reconstruction And Humanitarian Engagement There
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) what is Singapore’s current position on diplomatic relations with Syria’s new leadership; and (b) whether the Ministry is exploring opportunities for trade, reconstruction and humanitarian engagement with Syria.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: Singapore maintains diplomatic relations with Syria and has engaged the Syrian Transitional Government. I met with Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al Shaibani on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York in September 2025. Singapore is open to consider cooperation with Syria in areas where we can be of assistance.
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan
Curriculum Time Spent On PSLE Preparation
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education (a) what data the Ministry tracks on actual Primary 6 curriculum time spent on PSLE preparation, including studying of past papers and past questions, broken down by subject; (b) whether this has trended upwards or downwards since the removal of mid-year examinations; and (c) if no such data is collected, why not.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education (MOE) does not track actual curriculum time spent specifically on PSLE preparation but provides guidance to schools on the curriculum time needed for completing the syllabus. This ensures appropriate pacing and sufficient time for revision and familiarisation of examination formats. Schools plan the revision schedule based on their students’ learning needs.
Since the progressive removal of the Mid-Year Examination for all primary levels, schools have used the freed-up time to provide more engaging learning experiences and for strengthening students’ 21stCentury Competencies. Schools are mindful not to conduct excessive preparation for the national examination, and this is aligned with efforts to reduce the over-emphasis on examination grades. MOE will continue to guide schools on the use of curriculum time, while allowing local adjustments to better meet their students’ needs.
Update On Review Of Direct School Admission Scheme
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry can provide an update on the review of the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme, specifically whether the review remains among the Ministry's 2025 priorities; (b) if so, when the outcomes will be released; and (c) if not, why it has been deprioritised.
Mr Desmond Lee: The review of the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme is ongoing, and we will share more details when ready.
Data To Support Move Towards Skills-Based Hiring In Civil Service
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what are the percentages of Public Service jobs posted since January 2024 which (i) waive formal academic qualifications and (ii) employ skills-based assessment as the primary hiring criterion; and (b) what specific measures, targets and timeline has the Public Service established to accelerate the adoption of skills-based hiring across agencies.
Mr Chan Chun Sing (for the Prime Minister): The Public Service supports skills-based hiring and has adopted a competency-based framework to guide key employment decisions, including recruitment. Agencies are guided to specify skills and competencies in their recruitment advertisements. If specific qualifications are required, their relevance should be indicated clearly.
We do not track the number of job postings that do or do not include formal academic requirements in their criteria. Certain jobs, such as those in specialised or technical fields like accountancy, engineering, and legal services, require candidates to have the relevant professional qualifications to perform their jobs effectively. In such cases, agencies would explain the need for such requirements.
Regardless of whether formal academic requirements are specified in the job advertisements, recruiters will consider candidates for all roles holistically based on their skills, competencies, work experience and alignment with the job’s requirements, and candidates may be put through assessments such as case studies and practical tasks.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song
Study On Lottery Gambling Addiction And Review Of Policy Of Not Requiring Identification For Lottery Purchases At Singapore Pools Physical Outlets
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what studies have the Ministry conducted on the extent of lottery gambling addiction in Singapore; (b) whether the Ministry will review the current policy of not requiring identification for lottery purchases at Singapore Pools physical outlets; and (c) whether self exclusions and family exclusion orders can be extended to these outlets.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: The gambling addiction rate in Singapore has remained low and stable. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) conducts the Survey on Participation in Gambling Activities among Singapore Residents to assess the extent and pattern of gambling among adult Singapore residents and ascertain the prevalence of problem gambling. Based on the last three surveys in 2017, 2020 and 2023, the overall probable pathological and problem gambling (PPG) or gambling addiction rate has remained low and stable at about 1% of the local resident population aged 18 and above.
The exclusion regime is a social safeguard put in place for riskier gambling products such as casinos, gaming machine rooms and Singapore Pools remote gambling. These are riskier because casinos and gaming machine rooms allow for continuous play, whilst remote gambling makes it easier to access gambling from anywhere. Individuals are thus required to provide identification prior to entering casinos or gaming machine rooms, or opening a Singapore Pools remote gambling account.
The exclusion regime does not apply to Singapore Pools’ physical outlets because lottery purchases at physical outlets pose lower risks. Consequently, individuals are not required to provide identification for lottery purchases at these outlets.
This is reflective of our overall approach that recognises that there will always be some level of gambling, while ensuring that problem gambling remains under control. We will continue to maintain the balance between allowing limited gambling in a controlled environment and protecting individuals, families, and society from the harms of problem gambling through our social safeguards.
Professionalising Skilled Trades
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how the Ministry defines the professionalisation of skilled trades in providing multiple pathways to success; (b) what measures will ensure their viability as alternatives to university education; (c) what measurable wage growth targets will be set to track the success of this initiative; and (d) whether there are plans to enforce regulations requiring the engagement of licensed tradespersons.
Dr Tan See Leng: Professionalising skilled trades refers to transforming these occupations to adopt the recognised attributes of a profession, including structured career pathways, formal training, and certifications. This would improve recognition for these trades and support individuals pursuing these careers.
The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) is working closely with relevant stakeholders such as skilled trades associations to develop new initiatives that address the needs of each skilled trade. These include developing structured career and learning pathways and apprenticeship programmes to help tradespeople deepen their skills and progress along clear progression pathways, and encouraging a fair reward to tradespeople who have deepened their skills to provide high quality services. More information on these new initiatives will be announced later. We will also work with these stakeholders on the outcomes and targets for these initiatives.
We are not setting wage growth targets for the professionalisation of trades for now. We will monitor wages closely to ensure they rise in line with the quality of services delivered, and will calibrate our initiatives if necessary in view of potential impact to business and consumer costs.
At present, there are regulations in place that require the engagement of licensed tradespersons for specific tasks, such as for electrical works and complex plumbing works. The relevant sector agencies will enforce these regulations accordingly.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Tracking Knife Crimes Involving Offenders With Mental Health Issues
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the Ministry will consider tracking incidents of knife crimes involving offenders with mental health issues for further prevention and intervention strategies; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr K Shanmugam: The Ministry of Home Affairs does not track data on which incidents of knife crime involved offenders with mental health issues. We take all knife crimes very seriously.
We have put in place upstream legal levers to regulate and limit the sale of certain types of knives that have limited legitimate use, such as flick knives and switchblades, under the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act 2021. In addition, carrying offensive weapons, such as knives, in public places without lawful authority or purpose is a serious offence and offenders face imprisonment and caning upon conviction.
When there is an incident of a knife crime with the threat of violence, the Police are trained and equipped to effectively neutralise the threat and arrest the offender. For such offenders with mental health issues, depending on the circumstances, the Police may subsequently bring them to a medical practitioner to receive treatment. This is to help address the underlying mental health issues that may have caused such offenders to commit the knife crime.
Alternatively, the Police may refer the person to Community Outreach Teams, also known as CREST, which are set up by the Agency for Integrated Care (AIC), or to AIC itself. CREST or AIC will refer the case to appropriate mental health service providers.
Assessment Of Developments In Myanmar
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs what is Singapore's assessment of the developments in Myanmar, in particular the announced plans for elections in late 2025 or early 2026.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: Myanmar’s situation continues to be dire almost five years since the coup. The country is effectively fragmented as it continues to face widespread conflict and instability. There have been heavy casualties, including civilians, and mass displacements as fighting continues unabated between the Tatmadaw (Myanmar military), the Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs) and the People’s Defence Forces (PDFs). Control over many areas remains contested with no side able to secure complete victory. The economic and humanitarian situation is deteriorating. The conflict has hindered recovery and humanitarian efforts following the devastating earthquake on 28 March 2025.
Myanmar's challenges are historical and deep-rooted. As the Minister for Foreign Affairs has previously stated in this House, a durable and genuine national reconciliation can only be achieved through constructive dialogue involving all of Myanmar’s key stakeholders. The immediate priority would be the de-escalation of violence, facilitating humanitarian access, and creating conditions conducive for dialogue. Peace, security and inclusive participation must be the basis of the upcoming elections so that the outcome is credible and reflects the will of the Myanmar people.
Ultimately, the solution must be Myanmar-owned and Myanmar-led. Myanmar remains a member of ASEAN. Singapore will continue to support the efforts of ASEAN and the ASEAN Chair on Myanmar, including implementing the Five-Point Consensus.
Mr Fadli Fawzi
Complaints Of Employers Failing To Pay Workers Minimum Salaries Stipulated By Progressive Wage Model
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how many validated complaints have been received by the Ministry in the first six months of 2025 regarding employers failing to pay workers the minimum salaries stipulated by the Progressive Wage Model; and (b) how this compares to the same period in previous years.
Dr Tan See Leng: In the first six months of 2025, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) received fewer than 20 substantiated complaints regarding employers failing to pay workers the minimum salaries stipulated by the Progressive Wage Model, comparable to the complaints in the same period in 2024.
MOM will continue its efforts to raise awareness of the PWM amongst employees and encourage them to use the Progressive Wage Portal to verify their wages against PWM requirements. Employees who detect discrepancies can seek clarification from their employers or approach MOM for assistance.
Data On Employers Who Voluntarily Adopt National Wages Council 2024/2025 Guidelines
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry tracks the number of employers who voluntarily adopt the National Wages Council 2024/2025 Guidelines; (b) if so, what percentage of employers have adopted the guidelines for a wage increase of at least 5.5% for workers earning less than $2,500 per month; and (c) how this compares with adoption of previous years’ guidelines.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Ministry of Manpower tracks employers’ adoption of the National Wages Council (NWC) Guidelines via the Survey on Annual Wage Changes. The adoption rate of the Guidelines for lower-wage workers is published in the Ministry’s annual report on “Wage Practices for Lower-wage Employees and Forward Expectations of Establishments”. The adoption rate of the 2024/2025 Guidelines for lower-wage workers will be published in the upcoming edition of the report.
Data On Singaporean Victims Baited By Scam Syndicates To Work Overseas
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs since 2022 (a) how many cases involving potential Singaporean victims being baited by scam syndicates to work overseas have been reported to the Police; (b) whether there have been any cases of Singaporeans requesting assistance from the Government to escape overseas scam syndicates; and (c) if so, how many.
Mr K Shanmugam: Since 2022, the Government has offered consular assistance to nine Singaporeans upon receiving information that they might have been exploited in overseas scam centres. Only three of them accepted the Government’s offer, including facilitating their return to Singapore and issuing the necessary travel documents to do so.
In all of these cases, there was insufficient evidence to conclude the Singaporeans had been held captive and exploited by overseas scam syndicates.
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre
Standards To Deter Child Trafficking In Cross-Border Adoptions In ASEAN
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for Social and Family Development what steps have been taken with our ASEAN partners to establish common regional standards to protect against child trafficking in intercountry adoptions.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Child trafficking refers to the act of recruiting, transporting, transferring, harbouring, or receiving a child for the purpose of exploitation. This includes instances of the child entering into Singapore under false pretences and the unlawful transfer of the child for valuable consideration. Beyond adoption, such transfers could also be for the purpose of sexual exploitation or child labour.
ASEAN Member States have established and adopted regional frameworks to protect against child trafficking in general, and in relation to adoption. These include the ASEAN Regional Plan of Action on the Elimination of Violence Against Children from 2016 to 2025. This Regional Plan of Action includes measures to establish extraterritorial jurisdiction for offences and transnational crimes related to the trafficking and sale of children. Such acts are criminalised under the Adoption of Children Act, Children and Young Persons Act, Penal Code, Prevention of Human Trafficking Act, and the Women’s Charter.
In addition, the 2015 ASEAN Convention Against Trafficking in Persons, Especially Women and Children sets out the objectives and obligations of ASEAN member states for tackling child trafficking through a ‘4Ps’ approach – prevention, prosecution, protection and partnership.
Inter-country adoption involves bringing a child into Singapore with the goal of finding the child a permanent home with his or her adopted parents. Our laws and adoption process do not just target child trafficking, but also has various pro-active safeguards and measures in place. For example, the adoption process includes the verification of the child’s identity papers, travel documents and conducting checks with birth parents to ensure they have given valid consent, and have not offered the child for adoption for improper financial or material gain.
These measures together with our criminal laws work in tandem to prevent and deter the various forms of child trafficking.
Our partnership with ASEAN partners and our Government agencies has worked well to combat child trafficking as a whole. If there are allegations of trafficking, Singapore will render the necessary assistance within the ambit of our laws.
Mr Pritam Singh
Upgrading Costs And Plans For Eunos Community Club
Mr Pritam Singh asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) what is the total cost of the upgrading works for the Eunos Community Club; (b) what facilities have been set aside for upgrading at a later date; and (c) when are these deferred works slated to commence.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: Mr Speaker, I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association. The People's Association (PA) maintains a periodic Upgrading and/or Cyclical Maintenance Programme to keep our Community Clubs (CCs) well-maintained, functional and fit-for-purpose. Eunos CC was selected for upgrading in 2023 under this programme and a tender for upgrading works for Eunos CC was called in September 2022.
PA received 11 bids for the tender. Following an investigation by the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCCS), two bids were disqualified and excluded from the tender evaluation. CCCS made public their findings, and this was known.
The remaining nine bids were then evaluated using the Price-Quality Method (PQM). Eventually, the tender was not awarded because the assessed bids were substantially higher than the estimated value of the works needed. As previously explained, after an assessment, it was decided that it would not be prudent to proceed with the upgrading works at that time, given the substantial deviation from the estimated value.
Instead, PA decided to scale down to only essential works, at a lower cost of around $3.1 million, to ensure that Eunos CC can continue to be well-maintained and fit-for-purpose for residents’ use. This includes mechanical and electrical works, such
as upgrading of the lift system. Eunos CC is currently undergoing these essential works and remains on track to reopen by early 2026. Thereafter, PA will make a progressive assessment on the scope of works that might be needed to be done at the next scheduled upgrading. This will be done in consultation with residents, community stakeholders and relevant authorities.
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis
Singapore's Money Laundering Investigations Into Cambodia-Based Network Designated As Transnational Criminal Organisation
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether MAS has conducted money laundering investigations into the Cambodia-based network designated as a transnational criminal organisation by the US in October 2025, and its related entities; and (b) whether MAS had conducted investigations on the individuals and Singapore-registered entities affiliated with the network before they were named by the US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): This question will be addressed at the next Sitting on 5 November 2025, together with similar Parliamentary Questions.
Calculation And Source Of Funding For Subsidy To Cover Costs From Deferred 9.4% Increase In Public Transport Fares
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Acting Minister for Transport in relation to the further additional subsidy of more than $200 million for 2026 to cover the deferred 9.4% fare adjustment quantum for public transportation (a) how was the subsidy quantum derived by the Ministry; and (b) what is the source of such funding.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The $200 million amount is an estimate based on projected public transport revenue for 2026 and the deferred fare quantum of 9.4%. This will be drawn from the Consolidated Fund.
Written Questions
Ms He Ting Ru
Tax Incentives Received By Singapore Family Office Associated With Individuals Sanctioned By Us In October 2025
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance whether the local single family office associated with individuals sanctioned by the US for alleged transnational criminal activities on 14 October 2025 received tax incentives under the tax incentive scheme for family offices.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): This question will be addressed at the next Sitting on 5 November 2025, together with similar Parliamentary Questions.
Usage Statistics For Free Marine Parade Shuttle Bus Service And Cost Assessment Of Programme
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) what was the actual total passenger load for the free Marine Parade shuttle bus since its launch; (b) whether the initial estimate of S$1 million remains accurate to the cost of the programme; and (c) how much of that final cost will be publicly funded, including by Community Development Council funds.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association.
The Marine Parade shuttle bus service, a local community programme by the Grassroots Organisations (GROs) of the Marine Parade Town Cluster, was started with the aim of trialling a bus service to meet last-mile connectivity needs as a pilot project.
Usage of the bus service varied across routes, locations and time periods. This reflects a need for the bus as a last mile connector which was more pronounced at certain times of the day and in certain geographical locations. In some areas, usage was low whilst at other areas, it was much higher, at varying times of the day.
The initial estimated pilot cost of S$1 million remains accurate. The majority of the funding for the shuttle bus pilot came from donations raised by the GROs, supplemented by a $200,000 seed grant provided by the South East Community Development Council (CDC).
Ms Sylvia Lim
Safeguards To Ensure Singapore Family Offices Are Not Misused To Facilitate Money Laundering
Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether family offices are being misused to facilitate money laundering in Singapore; and (b) if so, what steps will the Government take to address it.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): This question will be addressed at the next Sitting on 5 November 2025, together with similar Parliamentary Questions.
Easement Of Anti-Scam Measures By Banks In "Whitelist" And/Or Considerable Safe Situations
Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance whether the Monetary Authority of Singapore will work with banks to recalibrate anti-scam measures so that friction in transactions is reduced in prescribed "whitelist" situations, for example, when account holders are making transfers to themselves or to Government agencies.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister) : The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has worked with banks on additional safeguards to protect account holders against scams that result in large sums being lost from their bank accounts. A recent measure applies to bank accounts1with at least $50,000 balance that are being rapidly drained of funds. Banks will delay the processing of further transfers to allow consumers time to re-consider if the transaction is indeed legitimate.
We are mindful not to unduly impede legitimate transactions, and there are whitelisted transactions that are not subject to this measure. Examples include: (i) Recurring standing instructions; (ii) Recurring GIRO/eGIRO payments; and (iii) Bill payments to organisations, including Government agencies, that are classified as billing organisations by the bank. Currently, a bank does not have information to determine whether the recipient’s bank account held with another bank is owned by the same customer.
MAS and banks are closely monitoring the implementation of the new measure, and will consider other adjustments as necessary to minimise disruptions to legitimate transactions while offering protection against scams. MAS and the banking industry have introduced various measures, including MoneyLock, and the phasing out of SMS One Time Passwords.
To protect consumers against scams, we need to accept some inconvenience in payments transactions. We also encourage consumers to plan ahead if they need to make large value bank transfers.
Note(s) to Question No(s) 4:
1 Refer to:
abs.org.sg/sitefinity/status?ReturnUrl=http%3a%2f%2fwww.abs.org.sg%2fdocs%2flibrary%2fbanks-to launch-enhanced-safeguards-from-15-oct-2025-to-better-protect-accounts.pdf
Long-Term Support And Compensation Available For Teachers Injured Or Disabled During Classroom Incidents
Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for Education what is the extent of Government support or coverage which is made available to compensate teachers who suffer from long-term injuries or disability in the course of managing student incidents in the classroom.
Mr Desmond Lee: We care for our teachers. In the unfortunate event that teachers are injured in the course of their work, they can decide whether to be covered under (a) the Work Injury Compensation Act (WICA), or (b) the Civil Service’s work injury provisions, which provides coverage for work injury-related medical expenses in public medical institutions for as long as they remain in service. For those who choose to be covered under WICA for work-injury related medical expenses, if they have longer-term treatments beyond the WICA claim limits or duration, they can utilise their yearly medical benefits to cover these expenses.
Regardless of whether teachers choose to cover their medical expenses under WICA or the Civil Service’s work injury provisions, they will be eligible for additional paid injury leave up to one year from the incident as provided for under WICA. Beyond this, they can utilise their yearly medical leave entitlement to cover any further work absence arising from the injury. In addition, in the event of permanent incapacity from the work injury, teachers can claim for lump sum compensation under WICA. The compensation limits for total permanent incapacity (i.e., 100%) have been revised to range from $116,000 to $346,000 for accidents occurring on or after 1 November 2025. If there is partial permanent incapacity (i.e., less than 100%), the actual compensation will be prorated based on the income and age of the teacher.
Mr Fadli Fawzi
Notifying Families Of Death Row Prisoners On Executions And Permitting Of Final Visits Or Calls
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) why was Datchinamurthy Kataiah’s execution delayed; (b) whether his family was notified of the final execution time and allowed a final visit or telephone call; (c) whether it is the procedure of the Singapore Prison Service to notify families of death row prisoners of the execution time and permit final visits or calls; and (d) if not, why not.
Mr K Shanmugam: The capital sentence of death imposed on Datchinamurthy a/l Kataiah (“Datchinamurthy”) was scheduled to be carried out on 25 September 2025. Datchinamurthy’s family was notified of the execution date in advance, and was allowed to visit him daily and for an extended period at each visit.
In the late evening of 24 September 2025, the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) was informed that clemency petitions were submitted to the President on behalf of Datchinamurthy. SPS informed Datchinamurthy and his family accordingly.
On 25 September 2025, SPS was informed by the President’s Office that the petitions were duly considered and rejected by the President. SPS conveyed the outcome to Datchinamurthy and his family. The sentence was subsequently carried out in the afternoon of 25 September 2025, in accordance with the law and as directed by the Court.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Effectiveness Of Covert Versus Overt Cameras In Preventing Speeding Offences
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs whether the Ministry has conducted research in Singapore showing if covert cameras are more effective than overt ones at tackling the prevalence of speeding offences.
Mr K Shanmugam: Overt and covert cameras serve different purposes. Overt cameras achieve specific deterrence against speeding in areas where there are higher risks of accidents. Covert cameras achieve general deterrence and reinforce safe driving behaviour. As these cameras are not substitutes one for the other, the research that the Member suggested may not be useful.
Follow-Up Actions To Rectify Restrictions For Persons Acquitted As Scam Mules
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) in cases where the Courts have acquitted persons accused of being scam mules, whether restrictions under the new facility restriction framework will remain for their bank accounts; (b) what steps will be taken to immediately lift such restrictions, if any; and (c) whether any recourse is provided if the restriction harmed livelihoods.
Mr K Shanmugam: The Member may refer to the response to Question No. 97, which was delivered on 15 October 2025.
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre
Investigations Into Child Trafficking And Illegal Adoptions In Last Five Years Resulting In Prosecutions And Convictions
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) in each of the last five years, how many cases of (i) child trafficking and (ii) illegal adoptions has the Singapore Police Force investigated; and (b) for each category of offences, how many cases have resulted in prosecutions and convictions, respectively, under the relevant laws including the Adoption of Children Act 2022.
Mr K Shanmugam: Trafficking in Persons (or TIP) is generally categorised into sex trafficking and labour trafficking.
Over the past five years, the Singapore Police Force (SPF) has investigated 59 alleged sex trafficking cases involving children under the age of 18 under the PHTA, the Penal Code 1871, the Women’s Charter 1961, or the Children and Young Persons Act 1993.
Of these cases, 34 cases proceeded to prosecution, of which (i) 27 concluded with convictions, while (ii) the remaining seven are under or pending court proceedings. The other 25 cases are either (i) still under investigation; (ii) concluded and the perpetrators received stern warnings or composition fines; or (iii) concluded and no further actions were taken against the initial suspects.
There were no reported cases of labour trafficking involving a child during this period.
There were also no reported cases of trafficked children under the Adoption of Children Act 2022 during this period.
NEL Morning Peak Hour Commuter Boarding Patterns From Punggol Coast To Kovan Mrt For CBD Versus Non-CBD Destinations
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Acting Minister for Transport what is the estimated proportion of commuters who board the North-East Line at stations from Punggol Coast to Kovan during weekday morning peak hours and who subsequently alight at stations (i) within the Central Area (ii) outside the Central Area.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: About one third of commuters who board the North East Line from Punggol Coast to Kovan during weekday morning peak hours alight within the Central Area.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song
Punitive Actions Against Individuals Involved In Sale Of Bank Accounts For Scam Purposes
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs regarding the student who was sentenced for selling her bank account for scam purposes, (a) whether the individuals who provided her with the scammers' contacts been identified, arrested or charged; and (b) what is the enforcement policy and penalties against individuals who do not sell their bank accounts but provide introductions and facilitate the commission of scams.
Mr K Shanmugam: On 1 October 2025, a Sri Lankan student was sentenced to three months and two weeks’ imprisonment and fined $1,100, for relinquishing control of her bank account to scammers. Her bank account was found to have received almost $18,000 in scam proceeds, most of which were from fake bulk order scams.
The accused claimed that she faced financial difficulties, and online “friends” had given her an unknown person’s details to whom she could sell her bank account. The accused had made the acquaintance of these “friends” online, but had never met them in person. The Police were unable to identify these individuals from the information provided by the accused.
The Police will take tough enforcement action against anyone who facilitates scams, including middlemen who help scammers recruit money mules. Depending on the facts of the case, such middlemen may face imprisonment terms of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $500,000, or both.
Media Coverage Of Large Lottery Wins And Managing Problem Gambling
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether the Ministry regulates news reporting of large lottery wins to avoid sensationalism and curb the promotion of gambling; (b) if not, how the Ministry reconciles such reporting with the existing framework to minimise problem gambling; and (c) whether the government has conducted any cost-benefit analysis on the social harm from such reporting against any public interest benefit from the news.
Mrs Josephine Teo: News organisations exercise editorial judgement and discretion when deciding which issues are of interest to their readers, as long as their reporting remains responsible, accurate and within the bounds of the law and applicable content codes. Content on linear television channels and radio must follow content codes that prevent programmes from normalising or encouraging gambling, or providing gambling tips. Members of the public would also give their feedback on the news coverage directly to the relevant news organisations.
For each TOTO draw, the Gambling Regulatory Authority (GRA) allows Singapore Pools to publish on its website the jackpot size, the number of winners, and where the jackpot winners had purchased their tickets. This ensures transparency in TOTO draw results.
In addition, GRA regulates gambling advertisements to address the social harms associated with lottery gambling. Singapore Pools is required to seek GRA’s approval for every gambling advertisement it intends to publish. In making its decision, GRA will consider whether the content may excessively induce gambling, or provide misleading information on the probability of winning.
Besides regulating advertising and promotion, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) has put in place other social safeguards to mitigate the social harms of gambling such as prohibiting betting on credit. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) also conducts regular public education media campaigns and outreach during peak gambling periods such as Chinese New Year. GRA and MSF will continue to monitor the lottery gambling situation and review our social safeguards as necessary.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Criteria For Inclusion In Chronic Disease Management Programme And Reasons For Non-Inclusion Of Eczema
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) what criteria does the Clinical Advisory Committee consider for a medical condition to be included in the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP); and (b) what are the reasons for the non-inclusion of eczema in the CDMP at this point in time.
Mr Ong Ye Kung : The criteria considered by the Clinical Advisory Committee (CAC) and assessment of eczema-related conditions for CDMP inclusion were explained in response to the written PQ1raised by the Member for the Parliamentary sitting on 25 September 2025.
As indicated previously, assessment of eczema-related conditions for inclusion in the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP) is under way.
Note(s) to Question No(s) 18:
1 To ask the Minister for Health whether the Ministry will consider including moderate-to-severe eczema under the Chronic Disease Management Programme.
Decision And Disbursement Duration Of Withdrawal Applications For Cpf Reduced Life Expectancy Scheme
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Manpower what is the average time required for (i) a final decision and (ii) disbursement after approval, for applications to withdraw CPF savings under the CPF reduced life expectancy scheme.
Dr Tan See Leng : Upon receipt of a member’s application for withdrawal under the Reduced Life Expectancy (RLE) scheme and the completed Medical Assessment Report from a medical institution, the Central Provident Fund (CPF) Board will review the medical report and generally inform the member of the outcome or provide a status update1within 14 working days. For more complex cases, for example, where there is a need to clarify the member’s medical condition with the relevant medical institution, the processing time may be longer. Upon approval of the application, the CPF savings will be disbursed to the member’s bank account within three working days.
The CPF Board is committed to process these applications expediently to ensure members receive timely financial support and is constantly reviewing our processes to better support members. For example, applications from members certified to have terminal illness or with advanced-stage medical conditions are currently expedited.
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis
Staff To Child Ratio In Preschools And Student Care Centres
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Social and Family Development what is the 25th percentile, median, and 75th percentile of staff to child ratio for (i) the various levels of preschools and (ii) student care centres.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: The Ministry for Social and Family Development sets minimum requirements for staff-to-child ratio for preschools and student care centres to ensure the safety and well-being of children.
Preschools must ensure that they have sufficient staff deployed to care for children in accordance with the ratios as stipulated in the Regulations for the different programme levels. This ranges from one qualified programme staff to five infants at the infant care level, to 25 children at the Kindergarten 2 level. MSF-registered student care centres that administer the Student Care Fee Assistance (SCFA) are also required to abide by a programme staff-to-student ratio of at least one staff to 25 students.
Preschools and student care centres have the operational flexibility to respond to the varied needs and demands on the ground. The centres can and do operate with more than the minimum staff requirement, in accordance with the respective centres’ programming objectives and available manpower.
Eligibility Assessment Of Participants Under Skillsfuture Mid-Career Training Allowance Scheme
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Education under the SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Allowance scheme, whether short-term or part-time work that have been undertaken by participants in the latest 12 months before the course start date are taken into account in determining the training allowance, particularly for individuals who have been retrenched or are already undergoing a career transition.
Mr Desmond Lee: The SkillsFuture Mid-Career Training Allowance is computed using the latest 12 months of available earned income data from Government records, such as Central Provident Fund (CPF) contributions, and Inland Revenue Authority of Singapore (IRAS) income records. Income earned from short-term or part-time work
that is reflected in Government records will be taken into account for the computation of Training Allowance.
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat
Expanding Skillsfuture Credit Eligibility For Subscription To AI Productivity Tools
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry will expand SkillsFuture Credit eligibility to include subscriptions for curated, high-quality AI productivity tools to facilitate hands-on learning; and (b) if not, why not.
Mr Desmond Lee: Today, individuals can use their SkillsFuture Credit to sign up for AI-related courses. Where relevant to the training, these courses may provide access to suitable AI tools, including premium versions. This approach helps learners to acquire relevant AI skills by applying practical tools to real-world examples or problems in a structured and guided learning environment.
Given that the AI landscape is still rapidly evolving, we will continue to monitor developments and support workers and enterprises in harnessing AI more effectively.
Reviewing School Counsellor Reporting Structures And Providing Training On Counselling Ethics To Enhance Confidentiality And Trust
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry will review counsellor reporting structures to enhance confidentiality and trust, including models where counsellors report to a dedicated mental health body rather than solely to principals; (b) whether training on counselling ethics can be provided for school principals; and (c) what steps will increase qualified professional to-student ratios and safeguard counsellor autonomy.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education (MOE) has established reporting structures for school counsellors that ensure clear professional practice, accountability, and coordinated student support. School counsellors abide by MOE’s ethical counselling standards to maintain confidentiality of any information shared by students. They also receive regular consultations with Master and Lead school counsellors at MOE headquarters on counselling and case management practices.
School leaders are kept informed of individual student cases to the extent necessary to provide in-school support, or for referral to external agencies. Like school counsellors, school leaders are guided to maintain the confidentiality of student cases where information is shared on a need-to-know basis.
Besides school counsellors and flexi-adjunct counsellors in our schools, severe cases are referred to external professionals including to the Response, Early intervention and Assessment in Community mental Health (REACH) teams. For schools with higher caseloads and complexities, MOE deploys additional counsellors to help them to maintain manageable workloads that support effective professional practice and quality care for students.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik
Utilisation Rates Of Skillsfuture Credits To Offset Tuition Fees At Autonomous Universities Over Past Five Years
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Education in each of the past five years (a) how many Singaporean students enrolled in postgraduate programmes at the Autonomous Universities utilised SkillsFuture credits to offset tuition fees; (b) how many were eligible for MOE postgraduate subsidies; and (c) how many were ineligible for such subsidies due to having previously received a government subsidy or sponsorship for a completed undergraduate degree.
Mr Desmond Lee: Over the past five years, on average, about one in three Singaporeans pursuing postgraduate by coursework full qualification programmes at the Autonomous Universities received MOE subsidies.
Regardless of whether they receive Ministry of Education (MOE) subsidies, Singaporeans may utilise SkillsFuture Credit to offset fees for these postgraduate programmes. One in three have done so over the past five years.
Singaporeans who previously received Government subsidy or sponsorship for their undergraduate degree remain eligible for postgraduate subsidies.
Effectiveness Of Skillsfuture-Funded Programmes On Job Related Outcomes And Expanding List Of Approved Certifications On MySkillsFuture Portal
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Education (a) whether impact studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of SkillsFuture funded programmes in achieving job-related outcomes; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider expanding the approved list of certifications on the MySkillsFuture Portal to include widely recognised international qualifications such as the Chartered Financial Analyst and Chartered Accountant certifications.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education (MOE) and SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) track and report the employment outcomes of SkillsFuture-funded programmes through administrative data, programme-specific surveys and econometric studies. In addition, SSG administers the Training Quality and Outcomes Measure (TRAQOM) survey to capture participants’ assessment of the quality and outcomes of SkillsFuture-funded programmes. These results are published on the MySkillsFuture portal to guide learners in making informed training decisions.
Singaporeans can use their SkillsFuture Credit (SFC) base tier, comprising the opening credit of $500 and a one-off top up of $500 in 2020, to offset the fees of examination-only certifications. These certifications must be recognised and supported by the relevant sector agencies to ensure prudent use of the SFC. Currently, about 360 such certifications are published on the MySkillsFuture Portal.
International certifications whose certification body is based overseas or has not registered with SSG, are not found in this approved list. Individuals who have completed industry-relevant international certifications can write in to SSG to ask to use their SFC base tier for a reimbursement of their examination fees.
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan
Data On Household Income Distribution Of Students Admitted Through DSA Scheme And Who Participated In Private DSA Preparatory Programmes Over Past Five Years
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education in respect of students admitted to secondary schools through the Direct School Admissions (DSA) scheme over the past five years (a) what is the household income quartile distribution of all admitted students; (b) what percentage participated in private DSA preparatory programmes; and (c) what metrics the Ministry uses to assess whether DSA benefits correlate with early talent identification rather than socioeconomic advantage.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education (MOE) does not track the household income distribution of students admitted via the Direct School Admission (DSA) scheme.
MOE does not track students’ participation in private preparatory programmes for DSA. There is no need for students to receive private preparatory programmes to be considered for DSA.
Our primary schools help students discover and develop their talents and interests through multiple avenues, including through Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs), the Art, Music, and PE curriculum, as well as the various Applied Learning and Learning for Life Programmes. MOE also runs the Junior Sports Academy, for primary school students who show sporting potential, with no prior training needed. Our secondary schools adopt a holistic approach to DSA selection, and consider factors such as the student’s commitment, strengths, potential and personal qualities, beyond their past achievements and performance.
We will continue to refine the DSA scheme so that it remains accessible for students from all backgrounds.
