Written Answers to WP's Oral Questions

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat

Ensuring Aircraft Engineers Are Not Penalised For Safety Related Delays

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Transport in view of an Australian ruling that an engineer was unfairly dismissed by his employer after Singapore Airlines complained about a 17-minute delay while clearing fault diagnostic messages on its aircraft (a) whether CAAS requires such disciplinary action to be reported where the aircraft is Singapore-registered; (b) if so, what action follows; and (c) how CAAS ensures engineers are not penalised for safety-related delays. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: The Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) does not require Singapore air operators to report disciplinary or employment actions involving their contractors’ staff whether these occur in Singapore or overseas. However, if an individual's actions result in a safety incident whether in Singapore or overseas, CAAS will investigate and take enforcement action if appropriate. As no safety incident had occurred in this case, there were no grounds for a CAAS investigation.

Particulate Concentration Modelling, Suspension Thresholds And Potential Closures Arising From Sand Infilling For Long Island At East Coast Park

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for National Development in relation to sand infilling for Long Island (a) what particulate concentration will be modelled at the East Coast Park boundary and at the nearest residential facade; (b) whether any particulate concentration will require sand infilling to be suspended, and at what reading; and (c) whether any part of East Coast Park will be closed to the public, and for how long. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Environmental Study for preparatory works at ‘Long Island’ assessed that there could be up to minor ambient air quality impact from sand infilling operations. 

Dust levels will be closely monitored at stations located at residential and recreational areas near the East Coast, and benchmarked against the baseline air quality data and Singapore’s air quality targets, in accordance with the Environmental Monitoring and Management Plan (EMMP). 

Members of the public can continue to access park facilities and beaches along East Coast Park throughout the preparatory works. Preparatory works will be confined to a designated work area in the sea, cordoned off with floating barriers for public safety. Sea users are advised to maintain a safe distance from the barriers. Safety advisories will also be put up at East Coast Park and on agencies’ websites prior to the commencement of preparatory works. 

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song

Number Of EMA Enforcement Inspectors Tasked With Investigating Unlicensed Electrical Works

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) (a) what is the current manpower strength of enforcement inspectors within the Energy Market Authority tasked with investigating unlicensed electrical works; (b) in the past year, how many reports of unlicensed electrical works have been received; and (c) how many enforcement actions have been taken against unlicensed electrical workers. 

Dr Tan See Leng: The Energy Market Authority (EMA) takes a serious view of unlicensed electrical works, as such works may result in electrical safety issues that can potentially endanger lives. 

Currently, EMA has 11 inspectors who oversee electrical safety matters. From July 2025 to June 2026, EMA received 20 reports of alleged unlicensed electrical works. Investigations have been completed for six cases, while those for the other 14 cases are ongoing. Of the six cases, EMA has taken enforcement action against the parties responsible in four cases, while the other two cases were concluded with no contraventions found. 

Number Of PUB Enforcement Inspectors For Investigating Unlicensed Plumbing Works

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) what is the current manpower strength of enforcement inspectors within PUB tasked with investigating unlicensed plumbing works; (b) in the past year, how many reports of unlicensed plumbing works have been received; and (c) how many enforcement actions have been taken against unlicensed plumbers. 

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: The Public Utilities Board (PUB) has a standing team of enforcement inspectors, and flexibly deploys other officers as necessary to investigate reports of unlicensed plumbing works.

In the past year, PUB detected 47 unlicensed plumbing works. Of these cases, PUB has taken 46 enforcement actions, with one case under investigation.

Standards For Frequency, Volume, Duration And Repetition Of Announcements In MRT Trains And Stations

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether the Ministry sets standards across rail operators for the frequency, volume, duration and repetition of announcements in MRT trains and stations; and (b) if so (i) whether the average proportion of journey times occupied by announcements has been assessed for each rail line and (ii) whether non-critical reminders can be shifted to visual channels to provide a more comfortable commuter experience. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: Other than announcements related to service disruptions and emergencies which must be made at prescribed frequencies, rail operators have the flexibility to decide on the frequency, volume and duration of announcements in stations and onboard trains. This is so that they can make adjustments based on the operating context, site conditions including ambient noise which can vary across time and location, as well as commuter profile. 

Not all audio announcements can be shifted to visual channels, as some commuters may not be in a position to view the display panels. Audio announcements also remain essential for visually-impaired commuters. 

Mr Pritam Singh

Update On Foreigners Working As Outsourced Workers In Food And Parcel Delivery Sectors

Mr Pritam Singh asked the Acting Minister for Manpower in view of the Platform Workers' Trilateral Group’s recommendations that platform operators should share the list of outsourced workers with the Government for checks when requested (a) whether the Ministry has been actively requesting such a list of foreigners working in the food and parcel delivery sectors; and (b) if so, how many foreigners are working in these sectors, respectively. 

Ms Jasmin Lau: The Platform Workers Trilateral Group had recommended that food delivery platform operators strengthen the prevention and detection of illegal activities in the sector, including outsourced companies employing illegal foreign workers. As part of this, food delivery platform operators should share their list of outsourced workers with the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) when requested, so that MOM can verify that the outsourced foreign workers hold valid work passes and are not engaged in illegal arrangements. Based on MOM’s ground operations and enforcement findings, none of the cases of foreigners working illegally have stemmed from outsourced companies. MOM has therefore not found it necessary to request the list of outsourced foreign workers from platform operators thus far. Instead, MOM has been working with the Singapore Police Force to tackle foreign workers renting local platform workers' accounts to moonlight illegally, including recently taking down a syndicate that provided modified apps and accounts to facilitate such illegal activity.

Construction Of Lifts At Pedestrian Overhead Bridges In Eunos Ward

Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for Transport in view of the completion of trial trenching works, when does the LTA expect to construct lifts at the following pedestrian overhead bridges in the Eunos ward of Aljunied GRC at (i) opposite Block 136 Bedok Reservoir Road (ii) opposite Block 151 Bedok Reservoir Road and (iii) opposite Block 613 Bedok Reservoir Road, respectively.

Mr Jeffrey Siow: The pedestrian overhead bridges near Block 613 and Block 151 Bedok Reservoir Road are included in the current phase of the lift upgrading programme by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). LTA has completed feasibility studies and will commence construction for the two bridges, from 2027 and 2028 respectively. 

The pedestrian overhead bridge near Block 136 Bedok Reservoir Road is not being considered under the current phase, as there is an existing barrier-free pedestrian crossing nearby. We will review if this bridge can be included in subsequent phases of the programme. 

Selective En Bloc Redevelopment For Older Hdb Estates With Large Surface Car Parks And Potential For Land Intensification 

Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for National Development whether HDB would consider additional Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) projects at older HDB estates with large surface carparks and significant potential for land intensification to build new BTO flats before the launch of the Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme (VERS) in the next decade, so as to retain as many secondary forests across Singapore as possible. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: This question was addressed in the Ministry of National Development's reply to the questions asked by Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin, Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat, Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong, and Mr Cai Yinzhou on 8 September 2026. 

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong

Supporting SPED Schools And Middle-Income Families Affected By Discontinued One-Way Transport Services 

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry has information that some Special Education (SPED) school bus operators will be discontinuing one-way transport services; (b) if so, how will affected SPED schools be supported in monitoring bus operators to prevent forced two-way fare bundling; and (c) whether targeted support will be provided to middle-income families who fall outside means-testing thresholds but face bus fare increases due to the discontinuance. 

Mr Desmond Lee: All school bus operators serving SPED schools offer both one way and two-way transport services. However, such school bus operators may require vehicle retrofitting, specialised vehicles, trained bus attendants, and customised transport arrangements to accommodate their higher needs. These requirements can limit the pool of suitable operators. 

To manage their overhead costs and maintain a commercially viable service, most operators across mainstream and SPED schools charge only a slightly lower fare for one-way transport than for two-way transport. In some cases, there are operators that charge the same fare for both options. 

Social Service Agencies (SSAs) operating SPED schools work with their bus operators to set pricing guidelines that balance these constraints while keeping school bus transport service sustainable. 

The Ministry of Education (MOE) recognises the importance of keeping school bus services affordable and regularly reviews assistance schemes to support families in managing transport costs. When financial assistance is needed, eligible SPED students may receive up to 80% subsidy on school bus fee through MSF’s Enabling Transport Subsidy (ETS) and/or apply for school-based financial assistance through their schools. MOE will continue to work with SSAs and relevant agencies to improve the affordability of school bus services over the longer term.

Measures To Minimise Significant Differences In School Bus Fees Across Mainstream Schools

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Education (a) what measures are in place to minimise significant differences in school bus fees across mainstream schools; (b) whether the Ministry provides a standardised evaluation framework for awarding or extending school bus service contracts which also addresses fee disparities; and (c) how transparency and affordability for parents are safeguarded regarding school bus fee structures and variations between schools. 

Mr Desmond Lee: Primary schools appoint their respective school bus operators through a competitive bidding process. The Ministry of Education (MOE) provides all primary schools with a common set of evaluation considerations for the school bus service contracts. Schools assess operators’ proposed maximum fares alongside non price factors such as operators' track record and fleet capacity, and their ability to fulfil the school’s requirements. 

MOE has a range of measures to help reduce operators’ costs. These include: exemption from Certificate of Entitlement requirements for school buses, a 50% road tax rebate for eligible operators, and additional foreign worker quotas to support the recruitment of drivers. However, school bus fares may vary due to route distance, vehicle capacity, and ridership, among other factors. 

For transparency, schools publish the appointed operator's maximum fares for different distance ranges. In addition, financial assistance is provided to primary school students from lower-income households who are taking school bus services. 

Applications Filed Under Sections 126A And 126B Of Women's Charter 1961 Since January 2025

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) how many applications have been filed under sections 126A and 126B of the Women's Charter 1961 since 2 January 2025; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider extending the graduated enforcement remedies under section 126B to parents whose custody or care and control orders are breached under section 126A. 

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Since the enhanced Enforcement of Child Access Orders (ECAO) measures came into force on 2 January 2025, there have been 53 applications under section 126B of the Women’s Charter as at 31 July 2026. The Family Justice Courts does not capture data on number of applications filed under section 126A of the Women’s Charter. 

The enhanced ECAO measures under section 126B broadened the enforcement regime for child access, to improve its effectiveness and incorporate less confrontational measures. We will continue to study the effectiveness of these measures and whether a broader range of enforcement measures should be extended under section 126A. 

Mr Fadli Fawzi

Factors Used To Determine Guaranteed Interest Rate Of 3.5% For Endowment Funds 

Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) how does the Government determine the guaranteed interest rate of 3.5% for Endowment Funds; (b) how frequently is this interest rate reviewed; and (c) how does this guaranteed interest rate differ from the fixed coupon rate of the Special Singapore Government Securities (SSGS) invested by non-Government Funds. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: Endowment Funds receive a guaranteed interest rate from the Government pegged to long-term bond returns, reflecting the Funds’ protected principal and perpetual investment horizon. The guaranteed interest rate is reviewed every two years, to ensure it remains appropriate while providing Fund administrators with near-term certainty of the annual interest returns. 

In contrast, SSGS are issued with a fixed tenor. The interest rate for other non Government Funds invested in SSGS is thus pegged to market instruments of comparable risk, such as Government securities, and of an equivalent duration to the tenor of the investment. 

Environmental Impact Assessment And Mitigation Measures For Western Island And Long Island Development Plans

Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Government has any plans to safeguard the approximately 8,000-year-old coral reef ecosystem in the waters off the proposed new Western Island, such as around Pulau Hantu and Pulau Semakau; and (b) whether these coral reefs will be protected from irreversible damage caused by land reclamation.

Mr Chee Hong Tat: These questions were addressed in the Ministry of National Development’s reply to the questions asked by Dr Charlene Chen, Ms He Ting Ru, Mr Low Wu Yang Andre, and Mr Sharael Taha on 8 September 2026. 

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik

Declined Requests For Town Councils To Undertake Repairs And Redecoration Of Hdb Multi-Storey Car Parks

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for National Development in the past three years (a) how many requests by Town Councils to undertake repairs and redecoration works for multi-storey car parks on HDB's behalf has HDB declined, and on what grounds; and (b) what criteria does HDB apply in deciding whether to approve such requests. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The Housing and Development Board (HDB) car parks are not part of the common property managed by Town Councils. Therefore, HDB generally manages the repair and redecoration (R&R) works for HDB multi-storey car parks (MSCPs), while Town Councils manage the R&R works for residential blocks. On occasion, HDB may receive requests from Town Councils to undertake R&R works to MSCPs on behalf of HDB, which HDB will assess. 

In assessing such requests from Town Councils, HDB considers factors such as the need for the proposed works, whether there are overlaps with HDB’s planned works, and whether the proposal achieves value for money. 

In the past three years, HDB received two requests from Town Councils to undertake R&R works for MSCPs on HDB’s behalf. In both cases, HDB did not approve the works for proposed car parks where they overlapped with HDB’s planned or ongoing works, or where HDB was able to undertake the works at lower cost.

Theory Test For Non-Motorised Cyclists Who Travel On Public Roads Shared With Motor Vehicles 

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Transport given that power-assisted bicycle and e-scooter riders are already required to pass a theory test before riding on public paths and roads, whether the Ministry will consider introducing a similar cyclist-appropriate theory test requirement for non-motorised cyclists before they are allowed to travel on public roads shared with motor vehicles. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: I thank the Member for the question. The Member may refer to our reply for Question No 78 for written answer at the 8 September 2026 Parliament Sitting. 

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre

Metrics To Assess GIC’s Performance Against New Strategic Portfolio Changes

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether the Government’s approval of GIC’s new Strategic Portfolio changes its risk appetite or long-term return expectations for GIC; and (b) what public metrics will enable Parliament to assess GIC’s performance against the Strategic Portfolio. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: The new Strategic Portfolio represents the Government’s risk appetite and long-term return expectations for GIC. The Government’s risk appetite remains broadly similar, and we expect GIC to outperform the Strategic Portfolio over the long term through active management. 

The Government holds GIC’s Board accountable for GIC’s performance. The primary metric for the Government to evaluate GIC’s investment performance remains the annualised rolling 20-year real rate of return. GIC’s annual report will continue to publish this, and other relevant metrics that would allow us to better assess GIC’s performance. 

Reviewing Priority Pathways To Primary 1 Admission And Publishing Outcomes To Promote Equitable Access

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for Education for schools that balloted in Phases 2A or 2B, whether the Ministry will publish (i) the proportion of each Primary 1 cohort admitted through each eligibility pathway and (ii) its assessment of how the pathways affect access for families without prior school affiliations and the socio-economic diversity of the school. 

Mr Desmond Lee: The Ministry of Education has been reviewing the Primary One Registration Framework and will share the outcome of the review soon.

Written Questions

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis

Recourse Available For Resident Nominee Directors Unable To Exit Directorships And Corporate Service Provider Obligations Upon Employment Termination

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what recourse do Singapore-resident nominee directors of companies have to exit a directorship when no replacement resident director can be found; and (b) what obligations do registered corporate service providers currently have to ensure an orderly exit for employees placed as nominee directors when the employment relationship ends. 

Ms Indranee Rajah: The Companies Act 1967 requires each company to have at least one director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore. This ensures that there is at least one person in Singapore whom regulators hold accountable for statutory obligations. 

Individuals who intend to accept such directorship appointments should be aware of the duties of a director, and the risks when taking on such appointments, especially where they are the sole director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore.

There are situations where a sole director who is ordinarily resident in Singapore is unable to resign because foreign directors and/or shareholders are unresponsive or uncontactable and hence no replacement can be appointed. In such a scenario, the sole director has the option to wind up the company under the Insolvency, Restructuring and Dissolution Act 2018 via application to the Court. The Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority may also strike off companies that are not carrying on business, based on prescribed circumstances under section 89B of the Companies Regulations. 

Corporate Service Providers (CSPs) do appoint their own employees as nominee directors of their clients’ companies as part of their business model. As it is the individual who is personally appointed as the company director, the appointment does not automatically cease when the person leaves the employment of the CSP. As part of the appointment, individuals are required to sign Form 45 under the Companies Act, where they would acknowledge their duties, responsibilities and liabilities specified in the Companies Act. To ensure an orderly exit for their employees, some CSPs obtain their client companies’ pre-approval to replace employee nominee directors upon their resignation from the CSP. 

Breakdown Of Unresolved Missing Persons Reports By Age Group And Disability Status

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs how many missing persons reports remain unresolved as of each year since 2021 as broken down by (i) young children (ii) elderly persons (iii) persons with intellectual disabilities and (iv) others. 

Mr K Shanmugam: From 2021 to 2025, there were around 6,500 missing person reports in total, of which about 20% remain outstanding. More than half of these outstanding cases are from reports lodged in 2025. Across this period, none of the outstanding cases involve young children, and four cases involve elderly persons. The Police do not actively track the number of missing persons with intellectual disabilities. 

Temporary Occupation Licence Application's Supporting Letter Requirements, Appeal Channels And Acceptance Of Elected MP's Letter As Alternative

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Law for Singapore Land Authority's (SLA's) Temporary Occupation Licence applications (a) what events require a supporting letter from the constituency's grassroots adviser; (b) why are such letters required for religious or other events; (c) what appeal channels exist for rejections; (d) whether SLA will accept a letter from the elected Member of Parliament as an alternative where the two differ; and (e) if not, why. 

Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) assesses Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) applications for events on State land taking into consideration the nature of the proposed activities and the potential impact on the community. 

The SLA takes into account a range of considerations, including the inputs of relevant stakeholders, the purposes for which the TOL is sought, as well as the views and representations of relevant parties. In respect of certain activities, such as religious and community events, which might cause local disamenities such as noise or traffic congestion, a supporting letter from the constituency’s Grassroots Adviser is also sought. Grassroots Advisers work with Grassroots Organisations to foster social cohesion, which has a nexus with such activities carried out in the community. 

Appeals against the outcome of applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants are welcome to submit any supporting reasons, representations, letters of support or appeal, and any other relevant information for SLA’s further assessment. All of this will be considered. 

Evaluating Bus Rapid Transit Feasibility In Tuas South

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Transport regarding the feasibility study for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system at Tuas South (a) what are the criteria and timeline used to evaluate the BRT's feasibility; (b) whether similar medium-capacity systems such as trams have been considered; and (c) what is the intended passenger capacity of conventional and tram-like BRT systems being studied. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: The viability of a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system for Tuas South will be determined based on projected public transport ridership, land and infrastructure requirements of the system, and its impact on existing traffic. As part of the feasibility study, we will look at different vehicle types to determine the optimal system design. 

We are considering BRT systems because they are potentially more economical, flexible, and faster to implement than rail or tram systems, which require dedicated infrastructure, such as tracks and signalling. 

Reviewing Town Selection Criteria Regarding Warm Meals @ North East Programme And Implementation Timeline To Extend Scheme To Sengkang 

Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) why the Warm Meals @ North East programme, jointly funded by North East Community Development Council (CDC) and OCBC, excludes Sengkang despite it falling within North East CDC's catchment; (b) what is the timeline in which the stated plan to extend the scheme to Sengkang will be implemented; and (c) what were the factors behind the initial town selection. 

Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: The Warm Meals @ North East program does not exclude Sengkang. North East CDC is working on the implementation of the program in Sengkang. This was in the public announcements of the program, as well as reported in the media following the announcements. 

Once the implementation details, including the timeline, are finalised, this will be made known to the relevant agencies and stakeholders. 

Mr Fadli Fawzi

Verifying AI Deepfake Images In Public Reports Following Fake Crocodile Sighting And Measures To Verify Authenticity Of Public-Submitted Information

Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs in relation to the fake photograph provided of a reported crocodile sighting at Pandan Reservoir on 20 August 2026 (a) whether the photograph was faked using AI; and (b) what measures will the Police and other Government agencies take to verify the authenticity of information provided by the public as it becomes more difficult to identify AI-generated deepfakes. 

Mr K Shanmugam: The Police are unable to provide further details specific to the case at this juncture while investigations are ongoing. 

When the Police investigates instances where edited photos are submitted to mislead the authorities, a forensic examination may be done to determine whether the image has been fabricated or manipulated. 

The Police urge the public to act responsibly and refrain from circulating false information or edited images that can cause unnecessary public alarm. In addition, the public should not submit fabricated or manipulated information, including AI generated or digitally altered images, as if they were legitimate photos to the Police or Government agencies. 

Depending on the facts and circumstances, persons who knowingly circulate false information with the intention to cause alarm, or provide false information or fabricated evidence to the authorities may be liable for a criminal offence.

The public should stay vigilant against misinformation online, and are encouraged to verify information through credible and official sources, such as announcements from the relevant Government agencies. 

Data On Availability Of Mother Tongue Languages In Early Childhood Development Agency-Licensed Preschools And Ministry Of Education Kindergartens

Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Social and Family Development what percentage of Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA)-licensed preschools and Ministry of Education kindergartens offer Mandarin, Malay, and Tamil as a mother tongue language, respectively. 

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: 99% of about 1,800 Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA)-licensed preschools and Ministry of Education Kindergartens offer at least one Mother Tongue Language (MTL). Of these, 95.1% offer Chinese, 31.6% offer Malay, and 16.8% offer Tamil. 

The provision of MTLs in preschools takes into account factors such as enrolment demand and the availability of qualified MTL educators. ECDA continues to work with preschool operators to support access to MTL learning. 

Ms He Ting Ru

Recruitment Targets For SG Defence Volunteer Network Performing Arts Volunteers, Distinction From And Impact On Paid Professional Engagement Opportunities 

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence in respect of the call for performing arts volunteers under the SG Defence Volunteer Network (a) how many volunteers the Ministry aims to recruit; (b) what criteria distinguish roles filled by volunteers from roles commissioned to paid professionals; and (c) whether any of these volunteer roles would otherwise have been fulfilled through paid professional engagements. 

Mr Chan Chun Sing: The SG Defence volunteer network was created to allow Singaporeans of all backgrounds and skill sets to augment the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF’s) operational capabilities and contribute to national defence. As we have observed from contemporary conflicts around the world, a whole of nation approach is required to build resilience and strengthen our defence against evolving threats. Modern warfare also requires a diverse range of skillsets that can be drawn from the private sector and the wider community, in areas such as legal, strategic communications, medical support, AI and cyber security. For example, volunteers who are qualified doctors or nurses enhance the SAF’s medical capabilities by helping to train our SAF medical officers and medics, and those with media skillsets contribute to the various SAF information centers. 

Volunteers can also offer their creative and technical talents for our outreach events to help Singaporeans better understand our defence story. Such contributions complement, and do not replace paid engagements. The Ministry of Defence or SAF will continue to hire professional services where needed to support operations, capabilities, projects and events. 

We do not set recruitment targets for individual volunteer roles. As a whole, we aim to double the SG Defence volunteer network in the next three to five years. 

Patient Support And Advisory Arrangements For Incomplete Dengvaxia Vaccination Courses Following Manufacturer Discontinuation

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given that Dengvaxia has been discontinued by the manufacturer (a) what support and advisory arrangements are in place for patients who have already been vaccinated or who are mid-course in the vaccination series, including access to remaining doses, clinical follow-up, and risk counselling; and (b) whether any alternatives are being explored. 

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The manufacturer for Dengvaxia has decided to discontinue the vaccine due to low global demand. No further follow up was required for individuals who had previously completed the recommended doses of Dengvaxia, since the discontinuation was not due to safety concerns. 

When the discontinuation of Dengvaxia was announced in 2025, the manufacturer informed healthcare service providers of the stock availability, who could then in turn contact patients who had their first dose or second dose, to advise them on completing the vaccination series. 

There are no new updates following the response to a parliamentary question on the same topic dated 4 February 2026. The Ministry of Health and relevant agencies will continue to monitor the development of dengue vaccines. 

Measuring Productivity Improvements From Government Supported AI Capability Investments And Key Findings Across Sectors

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) (a) how does the Ministry measure productivity improvements for businesses attributable to Government-supported artificial intelligence capability investments; and (b) what are the key findings from such measurements, including a breakdown across sectors. 

Dr Tan See Leng: For businesses that receive Government support for their AI investments, we measure improvements in process efficiency and/or labour productivity. The specific indicators would depend on the project concerned. As the support measures are relatively new, there is insufficient data to assess their impact at this point. 

The Government will also track the rate of AI adoption among businesses as well as sectoral productivity trends. Nonetheless, it would not be possible to isolate the impact of AI as sectoral productivity outcomes are influenced by a combination of factors including demand conditions, workforce skills, management practices and wider digital transformation efforts. 

Breakdown Of Ai Capability Building Support Disbursed To Employers Under Workforce And Enterprise Development Schemes By Quarter, Share Of Total And Sector

Ms He Ting Ru asked the Acting Minister for Manpower in each of the last four quarters (a) how much support was disbursed to employers under workforce and enterprise development schemes for artificial intelligence capability building; (b) what proportion this represented of total support paid to employers; and (c) which sectors received the highest amounts of such support. 

Ms Jasmin Lau: The Government supports companies to build artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities through a range of enterprise and workforce transformation schemes. These include schemes that specifically strengthen enterprise capabilities in AI, such as the Enterprise Compute Initiative (ECI), as well as broader programmes like the Productivity Solutions Grant (PSG), the Enterprise Development Grant (EDG), and the Enterprise Workforce Transformation Package (EWTP), which support projects that help firms to upgrade, innovate, grow and transform their business, including AI projects. These schemes are available to Singapore-based firms, across all sectors. 

For AI-specific schemes, we track the projects supported and the grant support provided. As some of these schemes, such as ECI and Champions of AI, were only launched in 2025 or 2026, it is too early to provide meaningful disbursement figures. We will be able to report these after the schemes have been running for a longer period and more projects have been completed. 

For broader schemes, AI adoption is often embedded within wider business transformation projects, and we therefore account for the support as part of the overall project. Where relevant, we can identify projects involving AI, but the total grant support would not represent funding for the AI component alone. 

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik

Data On Gender Differences In Age Well SG Active Ageing Programme Participation And New Strategies To Increase Engagement Among Elderly Men

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given the Intercontinental Alliance for Integrated Care's 2025 report on gender differences in ageing (a) whether the Ministry tracks participation in Age Well SG active ageing and physical activity exercise programmes by gender; (b) if so, what trends between older men and women have emerged in recent years; and (c) what new outreach strategies are planned to raise engagement among elderly men. 

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Active Ageing Centres (AACs) have helped many more seniors lead an active life and stay socially connected. The gender profile has remained broadly stable in recent years, with women making up around two-thirds of participants. 

In general, women around the world are observed to be more active participants of community activities. To encourage participation among male seniors, AACs and the Health Promotion Board (HPB) are introducing programmes that better align with their interests. These include activities such as playing music, games and sports. That said, it is also possible that male seniors are pre-occupied with their own pastimes, and prefer not to visit the AACs. 

Recourse Available And Payment Protection Measures For Unpaid Subcontractors Upon Insolvency, And Data On Reported Cases In Past Three Years

Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for National Development (a) what assistance and recourse can be provided to a subcontractor left unpaid when engaged by another subcontractor which went under liquidation; (b) whether the Ministry will consider measures to protect such parties who fall outside the Building and Construction Industry Security of Payment Act upon the paying party's insolvency; and (c) how many such cases were reported in the past three years. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: Once a firm enters liquidation, the insolvency framework under the Insolvency, Restructuring and Dissolution Act (IRDA) applies. An unpaid subcontractor can submit its claim to the appointed liquidator, who will distribute the firm's available assets among its creditors in accordance with the insolvency framework. 

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim

Impact Of Healthcare Deductibles On Medisave Balance For Retirees Without Regular Contributions In Meeting Future Medical Expenses

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the Ministry has considered the impact of healthcare deductibles on retirees who no longer make regular MediSave contributions, given that such deductibles may progressively deplete their MediSave balances and reduce their ability to meet future medical expenses. 

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Deductibles are a key feature of health insurance, as they sieve out smaller bills, instil discipline in healthcare consumption and focus coverage on larger bills. This feature preserves the objective of health insurance, which is to protect people against unexpected large hospital bills. Without deductibles, premiums every year would be much higher, which may deplete MediSave more than if there were deductibles. Incorporating deductibles into health insurance policies is the more optimal way to keep healthcare affordable overall. 

To support seniors, we boost their MediSave balances through initiatives such as MediSave top-ups, premium subsidies for lower income Singaporeans, and the Matched MediSave Scheme for eligible Singaporeans with lower MediSave balances. 

Patients who still face difficulties with their subsidised healthcare bills may approach medical social workers for further financial assistance, including MediFund. 

Measures To Manage Persistent Bird Roosting Noise Along Main Roads Beyond Tree Pruning And Nest Replacements, And Specific Interventions At Anchorvale Link And Anchorvale Road Blocks

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether NParks has taken any new measures to manage persistent noise from birds roosting in trees along main roads; (b) what specific measures are taken where tree pruning and nest replacement have been shown to be ineffective; and (c) whether such measures have been undertaken for the trees around Blocks 318A and 333A Anchorvale Link and beside Blocks 326A–C Anchorvale Road. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The National Parks Board (NParks) adopts a multi-pronged and science-based approach to manage pest bird-related disamenities, which includes measures such as regular tree pruning to disperse myna roosts, trapping and removal operations, as well as upstream food source management. To mitigate noise from myna roosts at Blocks 318A and 333A Anchorvale Link and Blocks 326A–C Anchorvale Road, NParks supports Sengkang Town Council’s myna management operations within the the Housing and Development Board estate by providing technical advice on pest bird trapping operations. 

Assessing "First To Board, First To Use" Shared Priority Bays For Mobility Aid Users And Young Child In Strollers

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Transport (a) what considerations led to the trial of the "first to board, first to use" shared priority bay between commuters using personal mobility aids and commuters travelling with a young child and stroller; and (b) what are the Ministry's success metrics for the trial. 

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether pre-trial consultations were conducted for the trial of the "first to board, first to use" shared priority bay between commuters using personal mobility aids and commuters travelling with a young child and stroller; (b) if so, with whom; and (c) if not, why not. 

Mr Jeffrey Siow: The Questions were addressed in the written reply issued for Question 98 for oral answer at the 9 September 2026 Parliament Sitting.

Data On Covered Table Tennis And Badminton Courts Provided In Sport Singapore-Operated Facilities And Assessment Of Facility Supply Against Booking Demand

Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) what was the number of covered table tennis and badminton courts in SportSG-operated facilities per 100,000 residents in (i) 2006 (ii) 2016 and (iii) 2026; and (b) whether the provision of such facilities has kept pace with demand as measured by bookings. 

Mr David Neo: We have steadily expanded our sport facilities over the years to meet Singaporeans’ sporting needs. Under the Sport Facilities Master Plan, which was launched in 2013, we have added more badminton courts and table tennis facilities across ActiveSG facilities, alongside expanding access to the Ministry of Education school facilities under the Dual-Use Scheme (DUS), and free-to-play sport spaces.

Rather than planning our sporting facilities based on a fixed ratio of facilities to residents, SportSG takes a practical approach and considers factors like town population size, popularity of sports, utilisation rates, availability of space, proximity to other sport and recreational amenities as well as feedback from residents. 

Currently, there are around 170 DUS indoor sports halls, as well as 150 ActiveSG badminton courts and 90 ActiveSG table tennis tables. In 2025, the average utilisation of badminton courts and table tennis tables was 98% and 61% respectively. 

SportSG will continue to monitor the supply and demand situation, including from private sports facilities, and plan our facilities accordingly. In March this year, we announced that we will be building 50 additional multipurpose courts over the next five years, to address the growing demand for badminton and pickleball courts. 

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre

Impact Of Healthcare Deductibles On Medisave Balance For Retirees Without Regular Contributions In Meeting Future Medical Expenses

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health where a Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Product (CTGTP) is not recommended by the Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE) for subsidy (a) what alternatives exist for managed access or financing; (b) what change in circumstances will trigger reassessment; and (c) what roles the ACE, mainstream financing schemes and Rare Disease Fund play in the access, financing and reassessment of CTGTPs. 

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Ministry of Health (MOH) uses internationally established Health Technology Assessment (HTA) processes to inform mainstream funding decisions, including for Cell, Tissue and Gene Therapy Products (CTGTPs). As a small market Singapore tends to lack negotiating power, and HTA instills the discipline to ensure that the price of drugs and medical devices we procure is commensurate with their clinical value. It helps ensure that Government subsidies and insurance payouts are directed towards treatments that bring value to patients, while keeping our healthcare spending and premiums sustainable. HTA is conducted by the Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE), which although part of MOH, carries out their work independently based on expert assessment. 

Typically, for a drug that is assessed to be non-cost effective, we will need to negotiate with manufacturers to price these therapies more affordably and commensurate with the benefits they provide. 

We have good success in doing this. But if price adjustment is still not forthcoming, patients who require CTGTPs may have access to other avenues of financial support, including private health insurance or discretionary assistance through MediFund in public health institutions. The Rare Disease Fund and other charities may also support selected treatments for rare diseases under their own criteria. 

Planned Increase In Childcare And Infant Care Capacity And Educator Workforce Growth By Residential Area

Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for Social and Family Development in view of the expected increase in demand for Government-supported preschool places following the newly announced subsidies that will reduce childcare and infant care fees (a) what additional childcare and infant care places and educator capacity by residential area are planned to meet this demand; and (b) what annual milestones have been set to ensure such capacity is available in time. 

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Since 2025, the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) has been working with Anchor Operators to add almost 40,000 new preschool places by 2029, of which close to 6,000 places will be for infant care. We will also recruit 1,800 more infant care educators by 2030, to cater to the expected rise in demand for infant care as services become more affordable for families. 

In addition, we will expand the network of Government-supported preschool operators, to give families more options for affordable quality preschool places close to where they live. As part of this effort, ECDA will introduce a new grant to help eligible preschool operators make the transition onto the Government-supported network. 

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song

Data On Complaints Regarding Employer Delays In Plumber Licence Application Sign-Offs, Application Outcomes And Improving Competency Assessment

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment over the past year (a) how many complaints the Public Utilities Board (PUB) received regarding employers delaying sign-offs on work logs or testimonials for plumber licence applicants; (b) how many of these applicants PUB successfully assisted; (c) how PUB rendered such assistance; and (d) whether it will consider adopting digital logbooks or an independent technical panel to assess trade competencies directly. 

Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: Since the revised Licensed Plumber (LP) scheme was introduced in 2018, the Public Utilities Board has not received any feedback regarding delays in sign-offs or testimonials for LP applications. 

LP mentors play an essential role in verifying that applicants have accumulated the necessary practical experience and demonstrated the ability to perform plumbing works competently. This is a role that cannot be replaced by digital logbooks nor an independent technical panel. 

Data On Employer Sign-Off Delays For Electrician Licence Applicants, Assistance Rendered And Alternative Assessment Proposals

Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry) over the past year (a) how many complaints Energy Market Authority (EMA) received regarding employers delaying sign-offs on work logs or 

testimonials for electrician licence applicants; (b) how many of these applicants EMA successfully assisted; (c) how EMA rendered such assistance; and (d) whether it will consider adopting digital logbooks or an independent technical panel to assess trade competencies directly. 

Dr Tan See Leng: Applicants for electrician licenses do not need their employers to sign off on the work logs or testimonials that are submitted to the Energy Market Authority (EMA) as proof of relevant practical experience. Over the past 12 months, EMA did not receive any complaints regarding employers delaying signoffs on work logs or testimonials. 

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat

Data Centre Energy Demand And New Generation Capacity, Assessment Of Overseas Data Processing Via Optical Fibre, And Options For Regional Network Financing

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) what proportion of new generation capacity sought by the Energy Market Authority (EMA) is attributable to projected data centre demand; (b) whether processing data overseas and returning the results via optical-fibre has been assessed as an alternative and what was concluded; and (c) if so, whether a regional optical fibre network with financing arrangements equivalent to the ASEAN Power Grid will be advanced to enable this. 

Mrs Josephine Teo: The compute capacity provided by data centres in Singapore is crucial for supporting Singapore’s digital economy and AI developments. Our data connectivity to many countries, including through subsea cables running on optical fibre, enables cross-border data flows in and around the ASEAN region. This allows companies to tap on compute capacity beyond Singapore. 

To support Singapore’s growth, EMA plans for sufficient generation capacity to meet Singapore's overall projected electricity demand.¹ From 2025 to 2032, Singapore's peak electricity demand is projected to grow from 8.2 GW up to 11.9 GW. This accounts for growth in energy-intensive sectors, such as semi-conductors and data centres. 

Note(s) to Question No(s) 34: 

¹ EMA’s latest Request for Proposal called for up to two new Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) generating units in 2032 to meet projected electricity demand growth. 

Enhancing Transparency In People's Association's Commercial Space Tender Awards And Streamlining Transparency Standards Across State Landlords

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) why the People's Association does not publish information on tender bids and awards for commercial space in the same manner as the Singapore Land Authority; (b) how many such tenders were awarded in the past three years; and (c) whether a common disclosure standard will apply to all State landlords. 

Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association (PA). PA puts out tenders on a regular basis in respect of its various contracting requirements. In the main, these are for a broad range of requirements, such as the procurement of goods and services to support PA’s operations and programs, as well as for items such as building works and estate maintenance services, or for revenue contracting purposes such as tenancy of commercial premises or rights ownership. PA publishes the notices of bids and awards of all these tenders online via the Government Electronic Business system and, where applicable, its established website, in line with the practice of all Government agencies. The number of tenders for commercial spaces conducted in this manner average approximately 23 per year. In addition to the above, there are also tenders that are administered by PA’s Grassroots Organisations (GROs). For these tenders, the invitation for bids, are published on PA Grassroots e-Mart System (GEMS) or PA corporate website. They are conducted by the local GROs in accordance with streamlined financial rules that uphold principles of open competition. PA regularly review our processes to strengthen governance. 

The total number of tenders for commercial spaces undertaken by GROs as described above approximate 70 per year on average. 

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong

Establishing Government-Vetted Handyman Services Panel For Seniors And Persons With Disabilities Across Housing Types To Mitigate Risk Of Scams

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for National Development whether the Ministry will consider establishing a panel of Government-vetted handyman services for seniors and persons with disabilities living alone in all residence types including condominiums, private estates and other private properties, to provide reliable home repairs at transparent rates and mitigate the risk of scams or trust issues often associated with unregulated commercial advertisements found in the open market. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: There are existing resources that residents may refer to when engaging contractors for home improvement and repair works. For example, the Housing and Development Board’s and some Town Councils’ websites provide information on contractors who may be engaged for home repair services. Residents living in strata-titled properties may also approach their Management Corporations or Managing Agents for referrals. 

Data On Environmental Impact Assessments Commissioned, Project Outcomes And Recommendations Adopted Since 2019, And Transparency And Public Participation Since 2020

Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for National Development (a) how many Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) have been commissioned since 2019; (b) of these (i) how many led to substantial project changes or cancellations and (ii) how many recommendations were fully adopted; and (c) since 2020, how many EIA-related planning projects included public dialogues, published feedback summaries and post-consultation modifications. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: This question was addressed in the Ministry of National Development's reply to the questions asked by Mr David Hoe and Mr Cai Yinzhou on 8 September 2026. 

Ms Sylvia Lim

Future Development Plans Of Land Occupied By Kovan Hub 206 For Next Five Years

Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether there are any development plans within the next five years for the land on which Kovan Hub 206 is sited; and (b) if so, what are they. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: There are currently no development plans within the next five years for the site. 

Five-Year Development Plans Of Land At Former Paya Lebar Kovan Community Club At Hougang Street 21

Ms Sylvia Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether there are any development plans within the next five years for the land on which the former Paya Lebar Kovan Community Club at Hougang Street 21 is sited; and (b) if so, what are they. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: The former Paya Lebar-Kovan Community Club at Hougang Street 21 is sited on land zoned ‘Residential’ in the gazetted Master Plan 2025. Agencies have plans for the land to be developed for residential use in the near term. Details will be announced when ready. 

Mr Pritam Singh

Non-Citizen Quota Of Hdb Flat Rental In Neighbourhoods And Rental Demographics 

Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for National Development (a) with regard to the HDB's Non-Citizen Quota for Flat Rental, what is the current percentage at the neighbourhood level for each neighbourhood respectively; and (b) how many HDB units, in part and in whole unit respectively, are rented out to (i) Singaporeans (ii) Malaysians and (iii) non-Malaysians in total. 

Mr Chee Hong Tat: As of August 2026, about 2% of neighbourhoods have reached the Non-Citizen Quota for renting out of whole flats.

Of the approximately 59,000 whole flat rentals across all neighbourhoods, about 20% were rented out to Singaporean and Malaysian tenants, and the remaining 80% were rented out to tenants with at least one non-Malaysian foreigner. For the approximately 117,000 flats with bedroom rentals, the proportions were about 52% and 48% respectively. 

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