Written Answers to WP's Oral Questions
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat
Cessation Of Integrated Childcare Programme For Children With Mild Special Needs
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what evaluation was done to conclude that cessation of the Integrated Childcare Programme (ICCP) that helped children with mild special needs was necessary in 2024; (b) what service gap was projected given that expansion of the Inclusive Support Programme (InSP) will only start from 2026; and (c) what like-for like interim provisions are in place to ensure in-childcare support for affected children.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Under the Integrated Childcare Programme (ICCP) which was launched in 2003, resource persons in selected preschools were funded to customise the curriculum for children with developmental needs (DN). However, children who required targeted Early Intervention (EI) support would still have to enrol in separate programmes such as Development Support and Learning Support (DS-LS) or the Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children (EIPIC).
Since 2012, we have increased accessibility of direct EI support for children with DN within preschool settings. Key enhancements included the expansion of DS-LS to more preschools and the provision of coaching to preschool teachers by EI professionals to support DN children in the classroom. The Inclusive Support Programme (InSP) was piloted in 2021 and will continue to scale to more preschools from next year onwards. Unlike the ICCP, the InSP provides integrated El services within the preschool setting for children requiring medium levels of El support. With these enhancements, children with DN were able to receive better support in preschools across various levels of EI support. Hence, the ICCP was discontinued in 2024.
To better support children with DN in preschools, ECDA has also introduced a requirement for every preschool to appoint an Inclusion Coordinator by 2023 to support the identification of children that may require EI and to refer parents and educators to relevant EI resources and services.
Congestion Along Kovan-Serangoon Corridor Given New BTO Project
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Acting Minister for Transport given Kovan Wellspring BTO completion will increase peak traffic demands (a) what are LTA’s plans on the congestion towards expressways along the Kovan-Serangoon corridor; (b) what bus and MRT capacity upgrades are planned to address current two to-three train waits during morning rush in this area; and (c) what is the timeline for MRT-related relief and road improvements along the Kovan-Serangoon corridor.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: Road improvement works will be carried out at the junction of Tampines Road and Upper Serangoon Road in tandem with the development of the Kovan Wellspring BTO.
Kovan MRT station is currently served by 12 bus services. We are introducing free morning off-peak rail rides on the North East Line from end-December 2025 to help to reduce train crowding during peak periods.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Tracking And Issuing Guidelines On Listed Prices For Subsidised Procedures At Public Hospitals
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the Ministry tracks and issues guidelines on listed prices for subsidised procedures at public hospitals, particularly given efforts to curb the prevalence of insurance riders.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Ministry of Health (MOH) provides broad guidance to Public Healthcare Institutions (PHIs) to set fees to recover operating costs, after government subsidy, and to maintain their quality of care and service to patients. Hospital bill information for surgical procedures and inpatient medical conditions are published on MOH’s website.
MOH has explained in the written reply to Parliamentary Question 21 for the Sitting on 14 October 2025 that Integrated Shield Plans and riders are mainly designed for private healthcare, and do not have much impact within public healthcare.
Accreditation Of Clinics For Mental Health Treatments Under Chronic Diseases Management Programme
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) what criteria the Ministry takes into account to accredit clinics for submission of MediSave claims for mental health treatments under the Chronic Diseases Management Programme (CDMP); and (b) whether the Ministry has considered allowing one-off claims from these accredited providers for mental health treatments not under the CDMP.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: General Practitioners (GPs) must be part of the Mental Health General Practitioner Partnership (MHGPP) programme, to be accredited to submit MediSave claims for mental health treatments under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP). The MHGPP programme ensures that GPs have the adequate training and experience to manage patients with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder in the community. All GPs can apply to this programme, as long as they have the necessary qualifications or clinical experience in mental healthcare.
Mental health conditions beyond the CDMP are not MediSave claimable. However, patients may still receive subsidies of up to 75% at polyclinics and specialist outpatient clinics for such non-CDMP conditions. Patients aged 60 years and above can also tap on Flexi-MediSave to pay for these treatments and medications, up to the prevailing withdrawal limit.
First Responder Agency For Enforcing Late Night Noise Violations
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development which agency is the first response authority for enforcing noise violations after 10.30 pm, such as cases involving individuals playing excessively loud music in public parks.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: This question was addressed in MND’s reply to the question asked by Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong on 25 September 2025.
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan
Public Officers Registered As Well-Being@Gov Programme Users
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) how many public officers are registered users of the Well-Being@Gov programme to date; (b) what percentage of these actively use the app monthly; (c) what is the average coaching and counselling credit consumption rate per officer; and (d) how does the Public Service Division (PSD) track and assess the programme's efficacy and cost-effectiveness.
Mr Chan Chun Sing: The Well-being@Gov programme is part of the Public Service’s broader effort to support the well-being of public officers. Well-being@Gov is an employee wellness programme that provides officers with on-demand access to well-being support measures via an app, including well-being screening tools, self care resources, and personalised coaching and counselling services.
We rolled out Well-being@Gov from March 2024 and to date, over 100 agencies have onboarded their officers, with an average of 10% actively using the app every month for the past one year. Officers who do use coaching and counselling services consume about 2.5 hours of coaching or five hours of counselling on average.
The Public Service Division (PSD) evaluates the programme through user satisfaction surveys, usage analytics, and agency feedback surveys. The response to the programme has been encouraging.
The work of a public officer is increasingly complex and the speed of change they face is accelerating. The Public Service is therefore committed to their well-being. Beyond the Well-being@Gov programme, the Public Service currently has a network of about 1,800 Well-being Ambassadors across agencies to provide peer support and promote mental well-being awareness at the workplace. Training in basic mental health first aid is also available for managers to better support their staff.
Targets And Timelines To Reduce Workload, Work Hours And Stress Of Teachers
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education given how the OECD TALIS 2024 report showed that administrative work is one of the main sources of stress for teachers and the average time spent by teachers on administrative work remained relatively unchanged since 2018 at four hours weekly despite technology initiatives, what quantitative targets and timelines has the Ministry set to reduce this burden further.
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education in light of (i) the OECD TALIS 2024 survey where 27% of teachers report experiencing stress “a lot” and (ii) that average term time work hours remain unchanged at 53 hours over the past five years (a) whether the Ministry is concerned; and (b) what specific, measurable targets will the Ministry set to reduce teachers' workload, work hours and stress levels.
Mr Desmond Lee: This question has been addressed in my response on the Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2024 findings and management of teachers’ workload and well-being at the Parliamentary Sitting on 4 November 2025, which will be made available on MOE’s website.
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis
Framework And Duration For Vape Addicts' Treatment And Rehabilitation
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health for persons seeking support for vape addiction under the National Addictions Management Service (a) what is the framework and duration for the treatment and rehabilitation of such persons; and (b) whether there can be scheduling flexibility to ensure continuity in the treatment process.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Government has decided to take firm enforcement action against etomidate abuse. Just like drugs, etomidate is very harmful to the individuals and to their families and loved ones.
However, given that many etomidate abusers are young people who inadvertently picked up the habit through peers, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is providing them a chance to come forward to seek help to quit the habit, and no enforcement actions will be taken against them. They can turn over a new leaf. But if caught, they can be subject to severe penalties.
Hence, this is not a medical service, subject to the convenience of the individual seeking support. We hope to see commitment and desire amongst the abusers to correct their mistakes. It must therefore follow that appointments are scheduled based on the availability of the National Addictions Management Service professionals.
Demographic Statistics To Determine Intended Intake Of New PRs And Citizens
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what demographic statistics other than the total fertility rate are being used to determine the intended intake of new Permanent Residents (PRs) and citizens; (b) whether the change in reporting Chart 17 in Population in Brief 2025 reflects a change in the intake determination methodology; and (c) if so, what is the expected impact on future intake determinations.
Ms Indranee Rajah: Our intake of Permanent Residents and citizens takes into account several factors. Apart from our total fertility rate, we also consider other demographic indicators such as life expectancy and age profile of our population. Our intake also varies on an annual basis depending on the number and quality of applications we receive.
Starting from the publication of the Population in Brief 2025, we have excluded citizenships granted by descent from being reported as part of the total number of citizenships granted. This is to more accurately reflect immigration inflows, since citizenship by descent is a constitutional entitlement for children born overseas to at least one Singaporean parent. It is akin to how children born in Singapore to Singaporean parents are constitutionally entitled to citizenship by birth. The number of citizenships by descent granted will continue to be reported under the Marriage and Parenthood section of the Population in Brief, and is also available on other open sources such as the Department of Statistics’ SingStat Table Builder.
This is a technical change in reporting and our intake methodology has not changed.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik
Singlit Books Available For Purchase With Sg Culture Pass Credits
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether the list of SingLit books that can be purchased using SG Culture Pass credits will be made available; (b) how does the Ministry define a SingLit book; (c) whether the definition is based on the author’s nationality; and (d) whether the book must also be published in Singapore.
Mr David Neo: The SG Culture Pass programme was introduced on 1 September 2025. Its main objective is to enhance access of Singaporeans to local arts and heritage and to help local arts and heritage groups.
Earlier this year, the Government announced that we are working to include SingLit books under the SG Culture Pass. The Government is working closely with literary arts sector stakeholders, including bookstores and publishers, to roll this scheme out.
As the intent is to support the local literary arts community, the focus will be on SingLit books, meaning works of literary arts that are written by locals. More details on the eligibility criteria for SingLit works will be released soon.
Ms He Ting Ru
Effectiveness Of Penalties Under Animals And Birds Act 1965 To Deter Animal Abuse
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for National Development (a) how the Ministry determines whether penalties under the Animals and Birds Act 1965 have been effective at deterring animal abuse; and (b) how the Ministry takes into account research on the potential links between animal abuse and psychological disorders in such determination.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: This question was addressed in MND’s replies to the questions asked by Mr Christopher de Souza, Mr David Hoe, Dr Charlene Chen, and Mr Alex Yeo on 22 September 2025, and the question asked by Mr Gabriel Lam on 15 October 2025.
Expected Cost For Upcoming Free Off-Peak Rides Pilot
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what is the expected cost of the upcoming pilot to offer free off-peak MRT and LRT rides for commuters in northeast Singapore; and (b) whether the Ministry can share any projections on the impact to ridership patterns.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: I thank the Member for the Question. I have addressed this at the 4 November 2025 Parliament sitting.
Reviewing Nutritional Standards Of Budget Meal Options
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether NEA will review the nutritional standards of budget meal options to ensure that they include adequate nutrients while remaining affordable; and (b) whether NEA will publish regular data on the accessibility, prices, nutritional composition, and participation rates of budget and value-meal schemes to enhance public awareness and understanding of their effectiveness.
Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: My Ministry does not oversee policies on health and nutrition, and has no intention to regulate the nutritional value of hawker food. The National Environment Agency (NEA) will work closely with the Health Promotion Board (HPB) to encourage healthier food options and choices at hawker centres.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song
Complaints Lodged By Third-Party Lift Contractors On OEM Vendors' Non-Adherence To Voluntary Commitments For Repairs And Warranty Periods
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many complaints have been lodged by BCA-registered third-party lift contractors since 2019 regarding Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vendors’ non adherence to voluntary commitments; (b) how does the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore enforce the fair, reasonable, and non-discriminatory pricing commitments by OEM vendors; and (c) what improvements in pricing, delivery time, and warranty periods have been observed since 2019.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Building Construction Authority (BCA) and Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore (CCS) have not received any feedback regarding Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) vendors’ non-adherence to voluntary commitments since 2019.
If there are complaints lodged by third-party lift contractors regarding non adherence to the commitments, CCS will investigate and take necessary action.
Measurable Targets For Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership With Australia
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) what measurable targets have been set for the enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) with Australia across its five cooperation objectives; (b) what data illustrates the success of the first CSP, such as trade or investment increases; and (c) what is the Ministry’s key factor to determine whether the commitment for essential supplies with Australia will be fully implemented.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: Singapore and Australia share a deep reservoir of mutual trust and shared strategic perspectives. This relationship has enjoyed strong bipartisan support from successive Australian governments.
The Singapore-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) was launched in 2015, including more than 110 initiatives across six pillars of cooperation. Between 2015 to 2023, our trade in goods increased by about 30% to S$30 billion, trade in services increased by over 170% to S$50 billion, while Foreign Direct Investment from Australia grew by over 50% to S$25 billion. The Agreement concerning Military Training and Training Area Development in Australia enabled valuable training access for the SAF, including the expansion of Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong launched the upgraded CSP (CSP 2.0) with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his Official Visit to Australia last month. The CSP 2.0 has a slate of 80 new initiatives, 20 new Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and Agreements, as well as 11 new dialogues across five pillars of bilateral cooperation.
Key initiatives under the CSP 2.0 include the enhanced Defence Cooperation (eDC) MOU and MOU on Economic Resilience. Under the eDC MOU, we have: (a) enhanced reciprocal access to defence facilities in Australia and Singapore; (b) strengthened cooperation in defence science and technology, as well as defence logistics and supply chains; and (c) expanded professional exchanges between our militaries. The MOU on Economic Resilience commences negotiations for an Arrangement on Trade and Essential Supplies. We will explore options for a legally binding commitment in the future.
Ensuring Network Quality Maintenance With Greater Infrastructure Investment After Simba-M1 Consolidation
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) what are the Ministry’s plans to ensure that the consolidated Simba M1 entity commits to greater infrastructure investment to maintain network quality, should IMDA approve the consolidation deal; and (b) whether the Ministry will require the entity to unbundle or open certain non-core infrastructure or services to Mobile Virtual Network Operators to sustain low-price competition, given its strong market position post-consolidation.
Mrs Josephine Teo: The proposed consolidation between Simba and M1 is being assessed in accordance with IMDA’s Telecom and Media Competition Code. IMDA will review feedback from industry and the public, as well as Simba and M1’s commitments to ensure that service quality and consumer interests continue to be met, and there is no significant lessening of competition.
Mr Fadli Fawzi
Roads With Three Or More Lanes In Each Direction That Do Not Have Bus Lanes
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what is the proportion of roads in Singapore with three or more lanes in each direction that do not currently have bus lanes; (b) whether the Government has any plans to reduce this proportion; and (c) if not, why not.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: About 80% of such roads do not have bus lanes today. We expect to decrease this to prioritise public transport and reduce public transport journey times for commuters.
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre
Lapses Identified In Review Panel's Report On Fatal Child Abuse Incident
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs regarding the SPF officers' failure to follow established processes identified in the Review Panel report on the February 2020 fatal child abuse incident, whether internal reviews indicated the lapses were isolated or indicative of broader systemic issues in supervision, training, or adherence to protocols.
Mr K Shanmugam: Megan Khung’s case was a tragedy. Minister Desmond has earlier set out the Government’s views on it.
In 2020, after Megan’s death was uncovered, the Police reviewed their handling of the case.
There were two rounds of police reports filed. The first report was made in January 2020 by Megan’s grandmother. Further police reports were made in July 2020, by Megan’s grandmother and father.
The Investigation Officer (IO) who dealt with the first police report, and her supervisor, failed to follow Police’s procedures to escalate the case to the regular case review sessions for monitoring and guidance.
The IO had assessed this as a case of child discipline with low safety concerns based on the information that she was presented with at that time. Following the report, the IO attempted to contact Megan’s mother over the next two weeks, but could not reach her. She did not follow up beyond that because she was then deployed for COVID-19 related duties.
Despite this, the case would normally have been followed up if the IO and her supervisor had escalated the case to the regular case review sessions in the first place. The subsequent police reports concerning Megan were referred to the regular case review sessions. This eventually led to the discovery of Megan’s death and arrest of the perpetrators.
Police commenced internal investigations once the case came to light in 2020, and disciplined both the IO and her supervisor. The IO resigned subsequently. The review panel corroborated these findings.
For missing person reports, the Police have established procedures to guide the follow-up. Specifically:
The Police accord priority to missing vulnerable persons as they may be at higher risk, regardless of the duration they have been missing. This includes young children. Cases of missing vulnerable persons are escalated to the regular case review sessions with supervisors for monitoring and guidance.
It is standard procedure for the Police to work with other Government agencies to locate missing persons, including sharing the data of the missing persons. Where necessary, the Police may also issue appeals for information to seek the public’s assistance.
The Police do not track the duration taken to close a case. There are many factors that can affect the length of an investigation. This includes the wide range of offences with varying complexities, as well as the need to work with different partners as part of the investigation process.
There are internal controls in place to ensure that cases are followed up promptly. These include a daily case review process for supervisors to provide guidance on the cases, and multiple levels of supervision and regular checks throughout the investigation. But the Police continue to strengthen these processes and systems. In particular, the Police have made several enhancements:
In 2022, they introduced the Family Violence Training Package for all frontline and investigation officers to adopt a sensitive approach to family violence cases, including child abuse cases, and to recognise and escalate high-risk cases to the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).
In 2023, the Police formed Family Violence Teams (FVTs) at all Land Divisions to give focus to family violence cases, including child abuse cases. Specialised training is provided to FVT officers to equip them with the knowledge and skillsets to handle these cases, such as how to engage the victims sensitively, as well as on working with other agencies. In particular, when the Police come across a case of suspected child abuse, or when MSF receives an urgent report on high-risk cases through their National Anti-Violence and Sexual Harassment Hotline, the Police will work with MSF Protective Service for safety planning and social intervention for the family and child. This may include the activation of MSF’s Domestic Violence Emergency Response Team (DVERT), a round-the-clock service launched in 2023 to provide immediate help to high-risk domestic violence cases with immediate safety concerns. DVERT officers would respond on-site to conduct a professional assessment and make urgent arrangements for the victims to be relocated or placed in alternative care for their safety, if necessary. DVERT officers are also empowered under the Women’s Charter to issue Emergency Orders at the scene, and to provide immediate safety for the victim.
To strengthen IOs’ efficiency and supervisory capabilities, the Police have also harnessed technology for the review of cases. They have implemented technological solutions to trigger automatic notifications to IOs and their supervisors to complete time-sensitive tasks promptly.
Our frontline Police officers bear a heavy responsibility to protect lives. They take this responsibility seriously, and perform their duties with commitment and professionalism.
The demands on our Police officers continue to increase. They often have to make difficult judgement calls every day in the course of their duties. When under pressure, mistakes can happen.
In this case, the lapse arose because two officers, who were under pressure, did not follow the operating procedure. It was a serious breach, and it resulted in a tragic outcome. The Police will learn from this, and reinforce procedures and training for its officers.
Safeguards And Support For Frontline Professionals To Promote "Safe Reporting Culture" To Protect Children
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for Social and Family Development following the Review Panel report on the February 2020 fatal child incident, (a) what steps will be taken to proactively review past and current child protection cases to identify other children potentially overlooked due to the systemic gaps identified; and (b) what measures does the Ministry plan to introduce to foster the "safe reporting culture" recommended for social service professionals.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: This question has been answered as part of the Minister-in-charge of Social Services Integration’s oral reply to Parliamentary Questions at the sitting on 5 November 2025.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Expected Layoffs In Petrochemical Industries Following Retrenchment By US Energy Company Of 500 Staff In Singapore
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Government projects further layoffs in the petrochemical industries following the announcement by a US energy company of its plans to retrench up to 500 staff in Singapore by end-2027; and (b) if so, whether the Government is extending support to these companies or to affected workers directly in the transition to a low-carbon future.
Dr Tan See Leng: The member may be referring to ExxonMobil’s restructuring announcement on 1 October 2025, where the company said that it would be retrenching up to 500 workers in Singapore by end-2027.
The Energy and Chemicals (E&C) sector is a global industry, and Singapore is subject to global developments in demand and supply. With any mature industry in transition, we also expect to see some churn as companies transform their operations. However, there will be opportunities for reinvestment and renewal. For example, as we transition to a low-carbon future, there will be new job opportunities for locals in growth areas such as specialty chemicals and bio-chemicals. Since 2021, there were over 30 new specialty chemical projects across manufacturing and R&D from global companies such as Arkema, Cariflex and Kuraray. When fully realised, these investments are expected to create more than 1,000 jobs, across roles in manufacturing operations, R&D and innovation, process engineering, sustainability, and corporate functions.
Should retrenchments occur, the Government’s priority is to support affected workers with employment facilitation. The Taskforce for Responsible Retrenchment and Employment Facilitation, comprising representatives from MOM, WSG, NTUC, NTUC’s e2i, EDB, and ESG, proactively reaches out to retrenching companies once notified of a retrenchment. For ExxonMobil, the Taskforce has offered career matching services and referrals to career switch programmes if workers wish to move into other growth areas. These include the Career Conversion Programmes and Mid Career Pathways Programme. We understand that ExxonMobil has also proactively engaged the ExxonMobil Singapore Employees’ Union and is committed to working closely with them to support affected workers throughout the restructuring process.
The SkillsFuture Jobseeker Support scheme will also provide temporary financial support of up to $6,000 over six months to eligible retrenched individuals to support them in finding a job that makes better use of their skills and experience. The Government will continue to work closely with companies to support workers in the transition to a low-carbon future.
Written Questions
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis
Breakdown Of Personal Disposable Income, Savings And Savings Rate By Citizenship Status And Entity Type Over Last 10 Years
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance for each year over the last 10 years, what is the personal disposable income, personal saving and personal saving rate as broken down by (i) Singapore citizens (ii) Permanent Residents, (iii) Foreigners (iv) unincorporated enterprises and (v) non-profit institutions serving households.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): There is no disaggregated data on Personal Disposable Income (PDI), Personal Saving (PS) and Personal Saving Rate (PSR), in the manner that the Member has requested for. The Department of Statistics (DOS) compiles the data at the aggregate level, based on information from several administrative and survey sources. These data are available on a quarterly basis since 1980 and can be obtained from the DOS’ website at
https://www.tablebuilder.singstat.gov.sg/table/TS/M016081.
Plans To Revise Minimum Annual Leave Entitlement In Section 88A Of Employment Act
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether there are any plans to revise section 88A of the Employment Act, which provides for a minimum annual leave entitlement of seven days; and (b) if not, why.
Dr Tan See Leng: Under the Employment Act, employees are entitled to a minimum of seven days of annual leave in their first year of service. This increases by one day per year of service with the employer up to a minimum entitlement of 14 days. Employers may provide more annual leave days to their employees than statutorily required. In 2024, over 90% of full-time resident employees aged 25 to 64 had more than seven days of annual leave, and 68.2% had 15 days or more of annual leave.
Annual leave entitlements must be seen alongside other entitlements that similarly support employees in balancing their work and personal needs. These include paid public holidays, sick leave and parental leave. Besides employees' needs, reviews of leave entitlements must also take into account the impact on business costs.
As part of the ongoing review of the Employment Act, tripartite partners will consider the statutory employment provisions holistically, to strike the right balance between protections for workers and costs for businesses.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik
Enhanced SGX-Listed Entities Disclosure Requirements For Foreign Regulatory Investigations And Settlements
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance whether the Government will consider implementing additional disclosure requirements for SGX-listed entities that are involved in investigations by foreign regulators or law enforcement agencies, regulatory settlements with overseas authorities or convictions by foreign courts to ensure that retail investors are adequately informed of potential risks.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): This question has been addressed in a reply at the Parliament Sitting on 5 November 2025.
Safeguarding Singapore's Reputation As Clean International Financial Centre With Good Regulatory Standards
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance what steps are being taken to safeguard Singapore’s reputation as a clean and well-regulated international financial centre.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): This question has been addressed in a reply at the Parliament Sitting on 5 November 2025.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song
Processing Times Of Traffic Police Summons And Preventing Repeat Offences And Licence Suspension
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what is the average time taken for the Traffic Police to issue a summon after a speeding offence; (b) what operational or administrative constraints prevent immediate issuance; and (c) whether the Ministry will review the system to ensure timely summonses that deter repeat offences and prevent demerit point accumulation leading to licence suspension.
Mr K Shanmugam: The Traffic Police (TP) typically takes about two weeks to issue a Notice to Furnish Driver’s Particulars to the registered vehicle owner, after the officers have verified the offence and the vehicle number captured by the speed camera. The vehicle owner is required to provide the particulars of the speeding driver within 14 days of the date of notice. TP will thereafter issue a Notice of Traffic Offence to the driver. This process is to minimise wrongful attribution of violations.
There is, however, a backlog because of the sharp increase in traffic violations, and a recent ransomware attack against one of TP’s vendors. It could currently take about a month before the registered owner receives the Notice to Furnish Driver’s Particulars. TP is addressing these issues.
Complaints Against Foreign Confinement Nannies For Past Two Years And Mandatory Safety Protocols And Regulations For Work Permit Applications
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how many complaints did the Ministry receive regarding safety, fraud or negligence involving foreign confinement nannies in the past two years; (b) whether the Ministry assesses the lack of regulation on direct hires such nannies as posing public safety risks to newborns and postpartum mothers; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider introducing mandatory safety protocols for all related Work Permit applications.
Dr Tan See Leng: In 2023 and 2024, the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) did not receive any complaints related to safety, fraud, or negligence involving confinement nannies.
MOM regulates the employment of foreigners in Singapore through the issuance of work passes, including work permits, to allow foreigners to work in various sectors, subject to labour laws and conditions of the work passes as well as any prevailing standards or licensing requirements set by the relevant authorities overseeing such sectors.
Ms He Ting Ru
Successful Employment Rates Of Imh's Job Club And Employment Outcomes
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) how many successful job placements have been made each year since the inception of the Institute of Mental Health (IMH)'s Job Club; and (b) of the successful placements made, what is the percentage of IMH patients who (i) cleared probation and (ii) are still on the job after 3 years, respectively.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Between 2012 to 2024, the Institute of Mental Health’s (IMH’s) Job Club has emplaced 1722 IMH patients in various jobs, which is an average of 132 per year. Of these 1722 patients, 46 remained employed in the same job for at least three years, while others may have maintained employment with various employers during the same period.
Tracking Commuters Unable To Board First And Second Trains During Peak Hours At NEL Line
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether the Ministry tracks the number of passengers who are unable to board the first and second trains during peak hours; and (b) if so, whether the Ministry will release this data for the North East Line.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The Land Transport Authority tracks such passengers via regular surveys. In general, less than 2% of commuters were unable to board the first or second train along the busiest sections of the North East Line, incurring less than four minutes of additional waiting time.
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat
Data On Processing Time For PDGE Applications And Withdrawal Rates Due To Prolonged Application Timelines In Last Three Years
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Education for each of the last three years, (a) the median and 90th-percentile processing time for Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) applications from submission to final offer; (b) the share of candidates who passed the interview but withdrew before receiving an offer; and (c) whether the prolonged timelines had compelled qualified candidates to seek alternative employment.
Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education (MOE) runs a rigorous recruitment process to ensure that only suitable applicants with the desired values, qualities and competencies are selected to be educators.
Shortlisted Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) applicants typically receive an interview invitation within three to four weeks of each application window closing. Those selected after the interview are then put through the proficiency tests (if applicable) and medical checks. Among the PGDE applicants who applied early this year and were selected after the interview, half of them received an offer within two to five months from the date of interview. About 7% of applicants who cleared the interview withdrew their applications before they received an offer.
We acknowledge that the longer wait time after the interview may be a concern for applicants, and we remain in touch with them throughout the process. MOE is committed to maintaining a high-quality workforce of teachers. We will continue to streamline and improve our processes to increase our recruitment efficiency, so as to attract as many good candidates as possible.
Separate Sub-Categories For Waste And Cleaning And F&B Within Services Sector
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Manpower whether the Ministry will establish distinct (i) waste and cleaning and (ii) food and beverage sub categories within the Services sector with differentiated dependency ratios and quotas, given their differing manpower requirements.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) regularly reviews the Dependency Ratio Ceilings (DRCs) in line with Singapore’s economic needs, local workforce outcomes, and infrastructure and social constraints. As a general principle, we leverage on the DRCs to nudge firms to raise productivity and create jobs that are attractive to locals by allocating quota to such firms.
Nonetheless, MOM recognises that the Services sector covers a broad range of sub sectors with differing manpower needs, which could include essential roles that are difficult to automate and recruit locals for. MOM has thus been working with sector agencies to provide targeted flexibilities, such as for landscaping and conservancy. We will continue to review our Work Permit framework to drive transformation and productivity growth, while calibrating it to support the needs of businesses.
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan
Ratio Of Teaching To Administrative Staff In Schools Across Education Levels In Past Five Years
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan asked the Minister for Education in each of the past five years, what is the ratio of teaching to administrative staff in schools at the (i) primary (ii) secondary and (iii) post-secondary levels respectively.
Mr Desmond Lee: This question has been addressed as part of the oral reply to Question Nos 2 to 5 on 4 November 2025.
Mr Fadli Fawzi
Decision-Making Authority For Prosecution Of Suspected Offences Under Part 9 Of Administration Of Muslim Law Act
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Law (a) whether the assessment and decision to prosecute suspected offences under Part 9 of the Administration of Muslim Law are cleared within Attorney-General's Chambers at the (i) Director level or (ii) higher management level; and (b) whether these offences (i) are considered as more serious or sensitive crimes or (ii) requires Attorney-General's express consent to prosecute.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: Under Article 35(8) of the Constitution, the Attorney General, as Public Prosecutor, exercises prosecutorial discretion. This includes the assessment and decision to prosecute suspected offences. Such decisions are made independently.
The processes by which the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) assesses and makes its prosecutorial decisions – including whether a matter is reviewed at Director or higher management levels – are operational matters within the AGC’s purview to determine independently and for AGC to decide based on the circumstances of each case and its assessment of the public interest.
Under the Administration of Muslim Law Act, there is no provision requiring the Attorney-General’s express consent to prosecute offences under Part 9.
Name Correction Of Berlayer Creek Mangrove Trail At Labrador Nature Reserve To “Berlayar” Creek
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for National Development whether the National Parks Board will consider correcting the name of the Berlayer Creek mangrove trail at Labrador Nature Reserve to Berlayar Creek mangrove trail, in light of the new Berlayar estate and historical place names in the area.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The National Parks Board had concluded its review in June this year, and is progressively updating the name of its Boardwalk to Berlayar Creek, including on its maps and signage.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Youth Unemployment Rates From 2000 To 2024 For Groups Aged 15 To 24 And 25 To 35
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Manpower what is the youth unemployment rate for the 15 to 24 years age group compared to the 25 to 35 years age group from 2000 to 2024.
Dr Tan See Leng: The unemployment rates for residents aged 15 to 24 and 25 to 34 have moved in tandem with economic cycles from 2000 to 2024, rising during recessions and easing thereafter. The relationship between the two age groups has remained broadly unchanged, with rates in 2024 at 6.8% and 3.3% respectively, comparable to the levels in 2000 [Chart 1].
As in most countries, unemployment among youths aged 15 to 24 is higher than that of older age groups due to greater job search activity among new entrants. Nevertheless, Singapore’s rates remain among the lowest internationally, ranking 6th lowest among OECD countries for youths and 3rd lowest for those aged 25 to 34.
Current Regulations And Guidelines On Overtime Hours And Permissible Work Hours For Employees In Security Sectors
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Manpower whether the Ministry currently regulates or provides guidelines for employees in the security sector on (i) the maximum permissible work hours per day, given that the Singapore Police Force’s licensing conditions only stipulate a maximum of 72 overtime hours per month and (ii) overtime compensation, given that PWM wage requirements now exclude such officers from Part 4 of the Employment Act.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Ministry of Manpower does not impose additional regulations on the maximum permissible work hours a day or overtime compensation for employees who are not covered under Part 4 of the Employment Act. These employees remain covered by other Parts of the Employment Act, including Part 10 on holiday, annual leave and sick leave entitlements.
Security agencies (SAs) must comply with licensing conditions imposed by the Singapore Police Force, which state that the SAs must not deploy their security officers to work for more than 72 extra hours per month. SAs can also refer to the Workplace Safety and Health Guidelines on Fatigue Management for recommended measures in areas such as providing rest breaks and limiting the duration of shift work.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Considerations For Land Area Proportion For Roads At Car Lite Zoned Public Housing Estates
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Acting Minister for Transport whether the Government's definition for car-lite zoned public housing estates takes into account the proportion of the land area dedicated to roads.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The proportion of land area dedicated to roads varies across car-lite estates, depending on the type and scale of all land uses in the specific estate. Car-lite estates generally have more bus lanes and dedicated cycling paths, as well as wider footpaths.
Update On Renovation Works For Hougang Sports Centre And Possible Usage By Members Of Public For Pickleball
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) whether the Ministry can provide an update on the status of the renovation works for the Hougang sports centre and when in 2026 is the sports centre scheduled to be opened; and (b) whether members of the public will be allowed to play pickleball in the sports centre.
Mr David Neo: The Hougang Sport Centre is targeted to be reopened by June 2026. Residents in the area can look forward to an expanded gym, additional fitness studios and a sheltered teaching pool with ramp access for enhanced accessibility. New additions will include water play features, activity areas, fitness stations along with a refurbished running track, as well as a refreshed indoor sports hall for activities such as basketball, badminton and pickleball.
The refreshed sport centre will be accessible to all in the community with barrier-free access, sheltered drop-offs and facilities connected by covered linkways.
