Written Answers to WP's Oral Questions
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat
Proposed Simplified Fast-Track Claims Process Under Assistive Technology Fund For Low-Cost Digital Aids
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) whether the multi-stage process of the Assistive Technology Fund is fit-for-purpose for low-cost digital aids such as AirTags; (b) whether Ministry will introduce a simplified fast-track process for such items; and (c) whether the low subsidy uptake for affordable devices such as AirTags is evidence that the current system deters such applications.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: The Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) provides means-tested subsidies to persons with disabilities to purchase assistive devices for independent living.
ATF applicants are guided to first approach an ATF touchpoint, where an assessor who is a healthcare professional evaluates and prescribes suitable devices based on the applicant’s circumstances. The assessor also guides the applicant on how to use the device appropriately. Thereafter, the assessor or a social worker will submit the ATF application to SG Enable on behalf of the client for the recommended device.
However, the ATF touchpoint may also decide that there is no need for an assessor to conduct a detailed assessment, if the applicant requires just basic devices.
Although there have not been any ATF applications for tracking devices, there is a simplified process for basic devices in place.
The applications for ATF are assessed based on the applicant’s circumstances, i.e. whether the devices applied for directly supports the applicant in purposes of early intervention, education, employment, therapy, rehabilitation and/or independent living, regardless of the cost of the assistive devices.
Fiscal Prudence Of Offsetting Grants For Enterprises And Impact Of G7 Proposal To Exempt Us-Parented Groups From Global Minimum Tax Rules
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) whether the Ministry has assessed the fiscal prudence of offsetting grants such as Refundable Investment Credit as recipient multinational enterprises may subsequently relocate jobs citing high costs; and (b) if not, whether the Government will repeal or suspend BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two if major jurisdictions like US and China abstain from joining the framework, to avoid competitiveness and tax-base erosion.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: On Mr Kenneth Tiong‘s question on grants, all incentives offered by our economic agencies, including the Refundable Investment Credit, are subject to terms and conditions. Companies that receive Government support must make significant investments in Singapore and meet key outcomes, such as job creation and local employment, business spending, or fixed asset investment. The level of support and conditions vary depending on the nature of the project and incentive.
Should a company fail to meet the imposed conditions, the Government has mechanisms to terminate the incentive and claw back the grants provided. Our competitive strengths go beyond the financial incentives we provide. Singapore has built up a strong reputation as a global business hub, underpinned by our stable political environment, strong rule of law, deep pool of talent, excellent infrastructure, and connectivity with the world. These attributes also enable us to compete on the basis of value and not simply on cost.
On BEPS 2.0 Pillar Two, Singapore implemented the Domestic Top-up Tax and the Multinational Enterprise Top-up Tax from 1 January 2025. This was to avoid ceding revenues to other jurisdictions under the Pillar Two rules.
In June 2025, the G7 released a statement on how the Pillar Two rules may co exist “side-by-side” with the US tax system. Discussions on the details of such a framework are ongoing. It is still unclear at the moment what the eventual outcome will be, and how other jurisdictions and multinational enterprises will respond. Hence, the impact on our fiscal outlook is uncertain. We are monitoring the issue closely and will review our approach once there is greater clarity.
Health Risks Arising From Non-Prescribed Performance Enhancing Drug Use
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) what public-health risks arise from non-prescribed performance-enhancing drug (PED) use such as human growth hormone, clenbuterol, trenbolone, and anabolic steroids, particularly among youths; (b) what targeted education exists within gyms and Institutes of Higher Learning to counter normalisation; and (c) how are these programmes’ effectiveness and behavioural outcomes measured.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Androgenic steroids and human growth hormones are prescription-only medicines which should only be used under medical supervision. These products are not approved for enhancing physical performance and individuals should not be consuming these drugs beyond their prescribed purposes. These drugs can cause serious side effects when used without medical supervision, including stroke, serious heart, liver and kidney problems. Members of the public who encounter the illegal supply or illegitimate use of these drugs should contact the Enforcement Branch of the Health Sciences Authority.
Anti-Doping Singapore (ADS) is working with Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) to deliver anti-doping education outreach programmes to their student-athletes. The aim is to create greater awareness among the student-athlete population over time on the consequences of abusing performance-enhancing drugs. Following the roll-out
of these programmes, ADS will continue to work with IHLs to determine their effectiveness.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Distinguishing Between Malay And Indian Muslim Food Providers In Bidding Criteria For Hdb Rental Coffee Shops
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the bidding criteria for HDB rental coffeeshops requiring one halal stall distinguish between Malay and Indian Muslim food providers; and (b) whether the Price-Quality Method (PQM) framework may be refined to place greater weight on Malay-Muslim food providers, given the relatively greater proportion of Malays to Indian Muslims in the population.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: Since 2005, for all new or vacant HDB rental coffeeshops, operators are required to provide at least one halal stall. This ensures that residents have convenient access to halal food, and that HDB coffeeshops remain inclusive social spaces that cater to residents of all ethnicities. Should any halal stallholder cease operations, HDB requires the coffeeshop operator to find a replacement within the tenancy period.
The requirement to provide at least one halal stall does not distinguish between the type of cuisine served. We have a variety of halal cuisines in our HDB heartlands, including Malay, Indian, Chinese, Western, and Japanese. The coffeeshop operators or stallholders can decide on the type of cuisine they wish to serve, so as to best meet local demand.
In Sengkang town, there are 19 HDB rental coffeeshops. Two of these are fully halal coffeeshops where all of their stalls provide halal options. Another 14 are coffeeshops with halal stalls providing a variety of options, eight Indian-Muslim stalls, five Malay-Muslim stalls, and three Western Halal stalls. The remaining three halal stalls ceased operations this year. HDB is working with the operators to ensure that replacements are found as soon as possible.
Apart from HDB coffeeshops, residents are also served by halal food options in nearby hawker centres, food courts and shopping malls.
Expansion Plans For Sengkang Public Library
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether there are plans to expand the size of the Sengkang Public Library in light of the planned integrated community hub; and (b) whether there are plans for another interim expansion following the one in 2017, given the ongoing demand for library services from the town’s demographic profile.
Mrs Josephine Teo: Under the Libraries of the Future Masterplan (LOTF), National Library Board (NLB) ensures that branch libraries like Sengkang Library are supported by larger regional libraries which serve a wider region and offer more services and collections. During its last revamp in 2017, Sengkang Library was already expanded by 18 per cent. Since then, NLB has also opened Punggol Library at the One Punggol integrated hub. NLB will continuously review and ensure that library collections and services meet the needs of the communities they serve.
Allocating Students To Junior College Courses Before Knowing If They Qualify Under Joint Admissions Exercise
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Minister for Education under the Joint Admission Exercise for junior colleges (JCs), what is the justification for allocating a student to a JC first without consideration of whether they will qualify for their preferred stream of study.
Mr Desmond Lee: Under the Joint Admission Exercise, students select either the Arts or Science course for each Junior College (JC) they apply to. Thereafter, students will be posted to the relevant JC and course for which they met the respective cut-off points. In other words, students are posted to the JC only if they meet the cut-off point of their preferred course of study.
In isolated cases where a JC assesses that the student is likely to face significant difficulties in coping with certain subjects or subject combinations in the course that he or she is posted to, they may advise the student to take a different subject combination, or be transferred to a different course. There was one such case in 2025, where the student was not offered a subject combination of the course he was posted to.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Update On Coastal Protection Studies On North And Western Part Of Singapore
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) for an update on the coastal protection studies being carried out on the North and Western part of Singapore, including Jurong Island, to mitigate sea level rise; and (b) the expected timelines for the (i) completion of the studies and the development of plans and (ii) commencement of works pursuant to the studies.
Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: The two site-specific studies for the North-west coast, covering our coastal reservoirs and our shoreline from Lim Chu Kang to Woodlands, are currently underway and are due to be completed by 2026. The site-specific study for the South-west coast, which will dovetail with the ongoing study for Jurong Island, will commence in 2026. Both studies are targeted for completion by 2030. The studies for the North and North-east coast, from Pasir Ris to Sembawang, will be conducted later.
PUB and the relevant public agencies will carry out preliminary and detailed designs of the recommended measures following the completion of site-specific studies. Construction of measures is expected to commence in the 2030s.
Ms He Ting Ru
Survey On Reasons For Singaporeans And Permanent Residents To Hire Migrant Domestic Workers
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Minister for Manpower (a) whether the Ministry has done surveys on the reasons for which Singaporeans and permanent residents hire foreign domestic workers; (b) what are the Ministry’s projections, if any, on future demand for foreign domestic workers; and (c) whether the Ministry can release any such survey findings and projections.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) commissions surveys on Migrant Domestic Workers (MDW) and their employers periodically. The last survey was done in 2021. The survey findings, including reasons why employers hire MDWs, can be found on MOM’s website. Generally speaking, there has been an increasing demand for MDWs to care for seniors given our aging population. The Government will continue to monitor our population trends and review our policies and plans accordingly, to cater to the evolving needs of Singapore households.
Higher Citizenships And Permanent Residencies Granted Last Year
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what is the reason for the higher number of new citizenships and permanent residencies granted last year as compared to the average over the last five years; and (b) whether this increase is indicative of a sustained upward trend in new citizenships and permanent residencies granted.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): We take in a carefully controlled number of new Permanent Residents (PRs) and citizens each year. The exact number of new PRs and citizenships granted each year depends on several factors, including the number and quality of applications we receive, and our changing needs.
For example, in recent years, we have granted PRs to healthcare workers to support our growing healthcare needs. We also granted a higher number of citizenships in line with the stronger applicant pool, based on factors such as assimilability, contributions, and links to Singapore such as having Singaporean family members.
Our immigration policy is also reviewed regularly to account for changes to demographic trends. For instance, if our TFR declines further or other demographic trends shift significantly – we will have to review and adjust our intake accordingly.
Regardless, we will continue to maintain a measured pace of immigration and be careful to grant PR or citizenship to those who can contribute, integrate well, and are committed to sinking their roots here, so that Singapore remains a cohesive society and a good home for all Singaporeans.
Underlying Causes Of Deaths By Suicide Among Adults Aged 30 To 39
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health what steps are being taken to study the underlying causes of deaths by suicide among adults aged 30 to 39 and to address this issue, given that this age group recorded the highest increase in 2024.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Suicide is multi-factorial and usually not attributable to any single cause.
The Institute of Mental Health (IMH) recently completed and released a study on suicide in September, which identified risk and protective factors as well as warning signs that families and friends can look out for. This enables timely support for at-risk individuals and can potentially prevent suicides.
For all age groups, the best interventions include building mental resilience, spotting early risk indicators, encouraging timely help-seeking and supporting individuals in crisis. MOH will continue to work with relevant agencies on improving suicide prevention measures.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik
Uptake Of Comlink+ Among Lower-Income Families Not Living In Public Rental Flats
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Social and Family Development what is the current uptake of ComLink+ among lower-income families not living in public rental flats.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: As of end-September 2025, the Ministry of Social and Family Development is providing ComLink+ support to about 1,000 families not staying in public rental flats. Over the next two years, we aim to support approximately 2,000 more such families.
Regulation Of Unlicensed Aesthetic Treatments
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the Ministry will consider introducing stricter penalties for individuals who provide unlicensed aesthetic treatments.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given the growing demand for aesthetic treatments, whether the Ministry will consider (i) reviewing regulations on aesthetic procedures and (ii) introducing psychological screening guidelines for patients to mitigate risks of cosmetic procedure addiction.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Clinical aesthetic procedures performed by registered medical and dental practitioners are regulated under the Healthcare Services Act (HCSA). Unauthorised persons who provide clinical aesthetic procedures are already subject to significant penalties. Ministry of Health (MOH) will continue to monitor the situation and review the adequacy of existing penalties to ensure that they serve as effective deterrents whilst protecting public safety.
Medical and dental practitioners must also abide by their respective Ethical Code and Ethical Guidelines which stipulate taking reasonable care to ensure that patients do not have psychological or psychiatric illnesses involving self and body image before providing aesthetic procedures to them.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song
Dialogue Sessions And Workshops For Students, Youths And Businesses To Improve Foreign Policy Understanding
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs in the past year (a) how many dialogue sessions and workshops have been conducted for students, youths and businesses to help them understand Singapore’s foreign policy; (b) what was the total attendance for each group; (c) how is the effectiveness of these efforts measured beyond attendance numbers; and (d) what other modes of engagement has the Ministry employed or have plans to employ.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: The Government has stepped up public engagement to explain our foreign policy fundamentals and approaches and to hear Singaporeans’ views. Since January 2024, we have conducted about 150 dialogue sessions and workshops with students, youths and businesses. Attendance for each session ranges from approximately 20 to 1,000 participants depending on the engagement format.
We collect feedback from participants at these engagements to better understand the clarity of the messages and effectiveness of the format. We aim to continuously improve on the content and delivery of the dialogues and engagements. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) has also been providing more content digitally on social media accounts to reach a wider audience. We are also exploring more interactive small group workshops to allow for deeper discussions with the participants.
Collisions Between Cyclists And Pedestrians On Cycling Paths Adjacent To Pedestrian-Only Paths
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) how many collisions between cyclists and pedestrians on cycling paths which are adjacent to pedestrian-only paths have occurred since 1 July 2025; (b) why are pedestrians not legally prohibited from such cycling paths; and (c) whether the Ministry will introduce such a prohibition to better protect pedestrians from accidents with cyclists.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: According to the Singapore Police Force, 20 accidents involving active mobility device users and pedestrians were reported between 1 July 2025 and 31 August 2025. We do not track the number of collisions occurring specifically on cycling paths adjacent to Pedestrian-Only Paths (POPs). There are other incidents that are not reported and are typically resolved between affected parties.
Under the Code of Conduct for Active Mobility, users are advised to keep to their own paths. The conversion of footpaths (next to cycling paths) to POPs is intended to improve safety for pedestrians who do not need to share the path with faster moving cyclists and PMD users. We do not legally prohibit pedestrians from using cycling paths to afford pedestrians, who make up the largest group of path users, the flexibility of also walking on the cycling paths when safe to do so. Instead, our approach is to clearly demarcate the paths, and focus on strengthening user etiquette and compliance through education and outreach efforts. Enforcement officers on the ground will also educate pedestrians who are seen to be on cycling paths to keep to the POPs for their own safety.
Land Transport Authority (LTA) will continue to partner the community and schools to raise awareness on safe path use.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Aligning Commercial Interests Of Insurance Companies With Needs Of Doctors And Patients
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the Ministry will look into better aligning the commercial interests of insurance companies with the needs of doctors and patients, particularly in the prescription of experimental treatments for chronic diseases, such that patients who are insured do not have to fear being out of pocket and doctors do not have to worry about not being paid.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Experimental treatments, by definition, have not been assessed rigorously for safety, clinical efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Therefore, it is not appropriate to fund such treatments under the mainstream financing or insurance schemes. Instead, they are typically supported through research grants and extended to selected patients.
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis
Statistics For Number Of And Projected Bed Spaces At Commercial Dormitories
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Manpower (a) what is the current number of commercial dormitory beds at workers' dormitories and the projected number of beds in each year over the next three years; and (b) whether the Government can consider increasing the supply of dormitory beds through industrial land sales or industrial property conversion given the current high occupancy and rental rates.
Dr Tan See Leng: Today, there are around 250,000 commercial dormitory beds. The Government projects a net increase of around 27,000 beds in commercial dormitories over the next few years. This includes the two government-owned purpose-built dormitories (PBDs) in Jalan Tukang and Sengkang West, which are expected to be completed in Q1 2026 and mid-2028 respectively.
The Government works closely with the dormitory industry to increase the supply of dormitory beds. Besides adding new PBDs to the market, we have also extended the leases of expiring dormitories where feasible, and allowed existing PBDs to add more beds whilst meeting prevailing dormitory housing standards. Within industrial estates, we have facilitated applications for new Factory-Converted Dormitories, and increased the allowable Gross Floor Area of industrial developments for dormitory use from 40% to 49%.
As a further measure to increase the supply of beds, the Government encourages and facilitates employers, especially those in the Construction sector, to set up Construction Temporary Quarters (CTQs) or Temporary Occupation Licence Quarters (TOLQs) to meet their workers’ accommodation needs. Public sector agencies have taken the lead in this to work with their contractors to house their workers in CTQs and TOLQs.
Monitoring Performance Standards Of School Bus Operators
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry oversees operational performance standards for school bus operators; (b) if so, what are the standards; and (c) what are the price and non-price factors that are being determined in the awarding of school bus operators by schools, including special education schools.
Mr Desmond Lee: Ministry of Education (MOE) sets the performance requirements for school bus operators serving mainstream schools. These requirements cover safety protocols, service reliability and overall service quality standards. Individual schools work closely with their appointed bus operators to ensure that these standards are met. The Social Service Agencies (SSAs) work with the SPED schools to establish standards for school bus operators serving SPED schools, while ensuring the performance requirements can meet the specific transportation needs of students attending SPED schools. All bus operators must also comply with statutory and regulatory requirements, including those mandated by the Land Transport Authority (LTA).
Both mainstream and SPED schools select bus operators through a competitive bidding process and award contracts to the operators that best meet their needs. The competitiveness of bus fares is one of the key evaluation factors considered by schools. Other non-price factors include operators’ good track records, fleet capacity, and ability to serve different residential areas.
Publishing Commuter Graciousness Index And Commuter Graciousness Survey Results
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) whether the Ministry can publish the Commuter Graciousness Index and Commuter Graciousness survey results over the last five years; and (b) whether the Land Transport Authority can consider additional measures to encourage commuters to give up their seats for the elderly, pregnant women and other commuters in need on public transport systems.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: We had answered a similar question by MP Jamus Lim on 26 September 2025. As mentioned in the written reply, we have been encouraging commuters to offer their seats to those who need them more through the Caring SG Commuter Movement and campaigns on gracious commuting behaviour.
The government tracks the perceptions of graciousness on public transport through various studies by Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Public Transport Council. We are currently reviewing the methodology of the LTA survey that was previously used to derive the Commuter Graciousness Index.
Mr Pritam Singh
Oversight Of Issues Related To Payment And Incentive Schemes Between Platform Operators And Platform Worker Associations
Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for Manpower (a) how does the Ministry intend to oversee the development of industry-wide principles for issues related to payment and/or incentive schemes between Platform Operators and Platform Worker Associations; and (b) when will these principles be made public.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Platform Workers Trilateral Group agreed that platform work associations and platform operators are best placed to discuss and address issues related to payment and incentive schemes on a bilateral basis. As each platform operator has a unique business model with its own payment and incentive schemes, bilateral discussions allow both parties to raise platform-specific issues that are most relevant to the platform workers concerned. This approach builds on the formalisation of platform work associations’ representation of platform workers under the Platform Workers Act.
To guide platform work associations and platform operators in their bilateral discussions, the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC), platform work associations, and major platform operators have agreed on a set of industry-wide principles related to payment and incentive schemes. The three principles, which cover fair earnings, visibility on structural changes to incentive schemes, and reasonable incentive structures, were announced by NTUC on 11 September 2025.
Public Rental Flats To Be Constructed Over Next Five Years
Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for National Development how many new public rental units is the Ministry planning to construct over the next five years.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: About 4,600 public rental flats are expected to complete over the next five years.
Mr Fadli Fawzi
Food Waste Segregation Programme For Households Nation-Wide
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether there are any plans to introduce a food waste segregation programme for households nation-wide modelled after the "Food Waste? Don’t Waste!" pilot in or around 2018; and (b) if not, why not.
Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien: Food waste is one of the three priority waste streams under the Zero Waste Masterplan. As part of our national approach, we have implemented a range of efforts to holistically reduce the amount of food waste generated and improve food waste recycling, including segregation of food waste from large industrial and commercial generators.
We are encouraged that community partners such as Public Waste Collectors and Town Councils have trialled the collection of segregated food waste from households. However, the household participation rate of some of these trials could not be sustained despite regular engagement and reminders. Ultimately, the support of all stakeholders is needed to sustain such household food waste segregation initiatives.
My Ministry continues to encourage such ground-up initiatives to manage food waste and is prepared to support promising proposals. In addition, we will continue to review measures and explore ways to reduce food waste, and improve food waste recycling from domestic premises.
Outcome Of Police Investigations On Sph Media's Overstatement Of Circulation Figures In 2023
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs whether an update can be provided on the outcome of investigations into the police report made by the Board of SPH Media Holdings over overstated circulation figures of SPH news publications in 2023, and if not, why not.
Mr K Shanmugam: The investigation is still going on.
Utilisation Rate And Cost Of Marine Parade Cluster Wecare Shuttle Bus Service
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (a) what were the utilisation rates and actual costs of the Marine Parade Cluster WeCare Shuttle Service during its one-year pilot; (b) what are the future plans for the service; (c) whether the Government has provided additional funding beyond the initial one-off $200,000 seed grant; and (d) whether any other grassroots organisations are planning such community-based shuttle services.
Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association.
The Marine Parade shuttle bus service is a ground-up initiative by the Grassroots Organisations (GROs) of the Marine Parade Town Cluster. It was started with a seed grant of $200,000 by South East CDC, with the aim of trialling a bus service for better connectivity for residents. There is a total of 6 bus routes each plying different routes. It was a pilot project which started in early July 2024.
The service has been regularly reviewed throughout its pilot, with some adjustments being made at the end of last year after user feedback was obtained. On the whole, utilisation of the service varies from route to route and also depending on the time of the day.
Following the latest review, the GROs of the Marine Parade Town Cluster have assessed and decided not to continue with the bus service when the current contract period is up on 20 November 2025 and instead re-direct their resources in a more targeted manner. Further information on this and alternative plans will be shared by the Marine Parade Town Cluster GROs with their residents.
Beyond the $200,000 seed grant provided by the South East Community Development Council (CDC) to implement the pilot, the rest of the funds used to run the bus service throughout the entire period were raised by the GROs and through donations.
As to whether any other GROs are planning such community based shuttle services, it would depend on factors such as the specific local needs of the residents, the cost of any such services and the availability of alternatives.
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre
Practice Of Motor Insurers Reducing Third-Party Damages Awards To Accident Victims By Deducting Sums Paid Out From Victims' Medishield Life
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether there is any legislation disallowing motor insurers from reducing third-party damages awarded to accident victims by deducting sums paid out by the victim’s MediShield Life; (b) if not, whether the Ministry will consider introducing such legislation, and (c) whether the Ministry has data on the prevalence of such practices by insurers.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Singapore Courts have recognised in precedent cases that insurers cannot reduce third-party damages awarded to victims by deducting sums paid out by the victim’s MediShield Life policy. The Courts have taken this position based on the Insurance Exception to the rule against double recovery under the common law, which states that the injured victim’s insurance claims are not deductible from damages payable by the wrongdoer. Courts in other common law countries, such as the US and UK, also recognise this doctrine.
There is thus already an established legal principle in place to address the concern.
The Ministry does not have data on the prevalence of the practices of motor insurers.
Engineering And Operational Criteria To Differentiate Isolated Incidents From Underlying Systemic Issues In Rail Network
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what specific engineering and operational criteria does the Ministry use to distinguish between isolated incidents and underlying systemic issues within the rail network; and (b) what analytical processes are in place to identify systemic weaknesses, such as those in maintenance regimes or asset renewal planning, that may link service disruptions which may otherwise appear to be isolated.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: A train network is a complex system that comprises many different parts that need to work together. To diagnose the cause of a rail incident, Land Transport Authority (LTA) analyses fault trends and reliability performance indicators across different rail lines and systems. LTA also analyses information including system logs, the condition of assets, and maintenance records, amongst others.
The disruptions in July to September occurred across different MRT lines. Investigations so far indicate that the incidents have different causes, and similar issues are not likely to occur on other lines. Nonetheless, we have formed the Rail Reliability Taskforce to review these recent incidents thoroughly, and jointly conduct audits on the condition, maintenance practices and operations of critical systems, to further reassure ourselves that there are no systemic problems.
Written Questions
Ms He Ting Ru
Assessment Of Non-Resident Population Increase From 2021 To 2025 And Contributing Factors
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what proportion of the close to 30% increase in non-residents between 2021 and 2025 is temporary; and (b) what are the reasons for this increase.
Mr Gan Kim Yong (for the Prime Minister): Work Permit Holders (WPHs) accounted for 60% of the increase in the non-resident population between 2021 and 2025. About half of these were from the Construction sector, including those supporting the ramp-up of public housing and major infrastructure projects such as Changi Terminal 5. The next largest increase, accounting for 13% of the increase in the non-resident population, was in the number of Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs) to meet the greater demand for caregiving support for children and the elderly. Both WPHs and MDWs are transient groups.
The 30% increase in non-residents between 2021 to 2025 should also be interpreted against the context of COVID-19. Border restrictions and weaker economic conditions contributed to the lower base of non-residents in 2021. With the subsequent easing of travel restrictions and recovery of economic activity post COVID, firms backfilled positions vacated during the pandemic. This was especially marked in the Construction sector where contractors hired a significant number of WPHs to catch up on delayed projects. As such, the annual increase in the non resident population was 6.8% on average from 2021 to 2025, compared to 2.2% when using the pre-COVID base year of 2019.
Breakdown Of New Citizenships And Permanent Residencies By Country Of Birth For Insights Into Singapore’s Population Trends
Ms He Ting Ru asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether there has been a change in the Government's policy on releasing the breakdown in the new citizenships and permanent residencies by country of birth; and (b) if not, whether the Government will release more granular data for citizens to better understand the trends of Singapore's societal make-up.
Mr K Shanmugam: We have explained previously in Parliament that we do not provide data on the number of new citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) by specific countries of origin, because this can create bilateral sensitivities and is not in our national interest.
Our position has not changed.
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis
Breakdown Of ABSD Collected From Prs By Property Type And Price Range Over Last Five Years
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance for each year over the last five years where Additional Buyer's Stamp Duty (ABSD) was levied on Permanent Residents, what is the breakdown by number of cases and ABSD collected for (i) HDB properties, (ii) private properties with a purchase price below S$1.5 million, and (iii) private properties with a purchase price above S$1.5 million.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: From 2020 to 2024, the average number of residential property transactions that involved the levying of Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) on Singapore Permanent Residents (SPRs) was around 6,600 per year. The corresponding average ABSD collected was around $462 million per year.
Out of these transactions, about 33% were for Housing and Development Board (HDB) properties; about 43% were for private properties with a purchase price below S$1.5 million; and about 24% were for private properties with a purchase price equal to or above S$1.5million. In terms of ABSD collected, HDB properties accounted for about 12%; private properties with a purchase price below S$1.5 million accounted for about 31%; and private properties with a purchase price equal to or above S$1.5million accounted for the remaining 57%.
Joint purchases by SPRs and foreigners are not included in the abovementioned data, as these purchases will have to pay ABSD under the profile with the higher ABSD rate (i.e. ABSD rate for foreigners).
Breakdown Of Employment Pass Holders And New Eps Issued By Years Of Working Experience Over Last 10 Years
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Manpower for each year over the last 10 years, what is the breakdown of (i) Employment Pass (EP) holders and (ii) new EPs issued, categorised by years of working experience in five-year bands.
Dr Tan See Leng: The breakdown of Employment Pass (EP) holders and new EPs1issued by years of working experience (whether in Singapore or overseas), as declared by their employers in their EP applications, is shown in Tables 1 and 2 respectively.
Note(s) to Question No(s) 49:
1 New EPs are issued to those working for a new employer in Singapore.
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong
Data On Rejected Applications Of Ltvp And Ltvp+ Due To Criminal History, Conduct Issues Or Income Requirements Over Past Five Years
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs from 2020 to 2024 (a) what are the annual numbers of LTVP and LTVP+ rejections due to (i) criminal convictions and (ii) the
conduct of either the applicant or sponsor; (b) what are the minimum income requirements to sponsor an LTVP application, if any; and (c) what is the number of cases rejected in spite of meeting the sponsorship requirements.
Mr K Shanmugam: From 2020 to 2024, about 7% of Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP)/LTVP+ applications were rejected. Grant of LTVP/LTVP+ (these are granted to foreigners) are evaluated on a range of criteria. The Ministry has in the past said that it is not in the public interest to reveal the detailed criteria, to prevent attempts to game the system.
Annual Applicant Rejection Rates For Government Mental Health Support Networks And Reasons For Rejection
Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) since their inception, what is the yearly average number of applicants who have been rejected by Government-affiliated mental health support networks like (i) Community Outreach Teams (CREST), (ii) Community Intervention Teams (COMIT), (iii) Youth Community Outreach Teams (CREST-Youth) and (iv) Youth Integrated Teams (YIT); and (b) what are the reasons given for rejection, if any.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Community Mental Health Teams do not reject walk-in or referred individuals. The teams will assess clients’ mental health needs and refer them to other services where appropriate or indicated. In 2024, 316 clients were referred to hospitals and other services for reasons such as severe mental health conditions, need for specialised care, and client’s preference to change services.
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song
Utilisation Rates Of NS LifeSG Credits And Considerations To Extend Validity Period
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence (a) what is the percentage of eligible National Servicemen who have yet to fully utilise their NS LifeSG credits; (b) how many have not used any of the credits; (c) whether the Ministry will extend the validity period beyond the one-year deadline; and (d) whether the Ministry will conduct a review of the reasons for the unutilised credits.
Mr Chan Chun Sing: In November 2024, $200 National Service (NS) LifeSG Credits were disbursed to each eligible past and present national servicemen from the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and Home Team to recognise their contributions to Singapore’s defence and security.
The utilisation of the NS LifeSG Credits has been high. As of end-September 2025, 87% of recipients had used their credits at least once. Over 61% of recipients have fully utilised their credits, while another 13% have less than $2 worth of remaining credits.
The one-year validity period of the NS LifeSG Credits was made known at the point of disbursement. It is consistent with the validity period for previous vouchers or credits disbursed to recognise national servicemen. To encourage national servicemen to redeem the credits before expiry, the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) has broadcasted direct reminders to national servicemen via SMS, as well as through mass messages on MINDEF’s social media platforms.
Singapore’s Diplomatic Expansion Strategies In Africa And Latin America
Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) which countries in Africa and Latin America will the Ministry be setting up new diplomatic missions in the coming years; (b) what are the key considerations for establishing a resident mission as opposed to utilising a non-resident ambassador to conduct diplomacy; and (c) whether there are concurrent plans to accredit non-resident ambassadors to more countries.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: We continually evaluate the network of Overseas Missions that Singapore maintains, based on factors such as where they can most effectively advance Singapore’s interests in these regions. We currently have 53 Overseas Missions around the world.
In view of our resource and manpower constraints, we supplement our overseas presence with the appointment of Non-Resident Ambassadors (NRAs) who travel regularly to engage foreign governments. NRAs, drawn from diverse backgrounds such as the private sector and academia, have been instrumental in representing Singapore and advancing our interests.
We will consider the establishment of more Overseas Missions according to national needs and the resources available.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim
Extending Medisave Coverage To Wake-Related Expenses And Posthumous Expenditures
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether an individual’s Medisave account may be used for immediate family’s wake-related expenses; and (b) if not, whether the distinction between end-of-life medical expenditures and posthumous expenditures is artificial, given that immediate family members typically bear both costs without exceptions.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: As MediSave is intended to support healthcare expenses, especially, in old age, contributions to MediSave are sized accordingly, for healthcare needs only. Hence, allowing MediSave for non-healthcare expenses, beyond its intended scope, would not be prudent.
Nevertheless, there is flexibility for individuals to withdraw their Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings, including MediSave, in certain circumstances, such as if they have reduced life expectancy or are terminally ill. This cash can then go towards meeting their various needs. In addition, any remaining MediSave funds of deceased CPF members are distributed to their nominees in cash, allowing full flexibility of use. There are also welfare organisations that help with the funeral expenses of those in need.
Waiving Polyclinic Doctors’ Memo Fees For SG Enable Schemes And Grants Applications
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the doctor’s memo fee for certifying the medical status of a patient to qualify for the schemes and grants administered by SG Enable may be waived at polyclinics.
Mr Ong Ye Kung: Writing a medical memo requires the doctor’s time and effort to review and summarise the patient’s medical status. A fee is therefore charged at the polyclinics for these memos.
As a matter of principle, we do not waive charges across the board for polyclinic services, which are already heavily subsidised. However, patients who need more support are able to apply for additional financial assistance. Agencies in charge of respective schemes may also assess whether to fully cover the charges for the schemes they administer.
Mr Fadli Fawzi
Engaging US Government On FTA Immigration Commitments And Advocating For Rights Of Singaporeans With US Visas
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether the Government has been engaging the United States government on (i) maintaining its obligations under the United States-Singapore Free Trade Agreement in relation to immigration, such as the H-1B1 visa, and (ii) protecting the rights and privileges of Singaporean holders of US visas.
Dr Vivian Balakrishnan: The H-1B1 visa programme applies to foreign skilled labour from Singapore under the US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement. There are no changes to H-1B1 processes at this time. The US Embassy in Singapore has stated that the US’ Presidential Proclamation on 19 September 2025 which imposes a new Restriction on Entry and fee under the H-1B visa programme is separate from and does not apply to the H-1B1 visa programme for Singapore citizens. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) will continue to monitor this issue and engage our US counterparts as required, as we regularly do on a broad range of issues.
To date, MFA is not aware of bona fide Singaporean holders of valid US visas whose rights and privileges have been affected by recent immigration enforcement actions in the US. Nonetheless, Singaporeans should take note that possession of a valid US visa does not guarantee automatic entry into the country nor one’s stay for the entire validity period of the visa. Singaporeans should also be aware that each country determines its own immigration policies, including policies applicable to existing visa holders.
Data On Illegitimate Births And Subsequent Adoptions Since 2020 And Destigmatisation Measures
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) how many births in Singapore since 2020 have been classified as illegitimate; (b) how many of these children have been subsequently adopted by their biological parents; (c) what is the average duration of the adoption process in these cases; and (d) what actions, if any, does the Government intend to take to reduce the stigma surrounding illegitimate children.
Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: A non-marital birth refers to a child born to parents who are not legally married to each other at the time of the child’s birth. Under the Legitimacy Act 1934, a child of a non-marital birth is not considered legitimate, unless the parents subsequently marry each other or the child is adopted. From 2020 to 2024, there were on average about 745 non-marital live births per year to Singapore citizen mothers in Singapore.
Of the non-marital live births from 2020 to 2024, 12 children were subsequently adopted by their biological parents within the same period. As part of the adoption proceedings, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF)’s Guardian-in Adoption conducts social investigations to assess the safety and well-being of the child within the prospective adoptive family. The duration of the social investigation is typically about nine months, provided there are no complicating factors.
Every child, regardless of their parents’ marital status, deserves to be valued, supported, and given equal opportunities to thrive. The Government recognises that children of single unwed parents may face stigma and is committed to fostering an inclusive and caring society. In schools, through the Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) Curriculum, students learn empathy and respect for all, regardless of their family backgrounds. Our teachers nurture a caring and enabling school environment and are sensitive to the socio-emotional needs of all children, including those who require additional support because of their family circumstances. The Government also does not differentiate benefits that support Singapore citizen children’s growth and development based on their parents’ marital status. These benefits include subsidies for education, healthcare, childcare and infant care, as well as the migrant domestic worker levy concession. Single unwed parents do not need to adopt their own children to qualify for these Government benefits.
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat
Assessing Feasibility Of National Toy And Board Game Lending Service And Integration Into Nlb Network
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information in respect of Punggol’s Toy Library which offers educational toys for kids to play with free-of-charge but does not lend toys (a) what is the Ministry's assessment of public demand for a national toy and board-game lending service to reduce costs and consumption; and (b) what feasibility studies have been conducted to examine integrating a toy-lending system into the NLB network.
Mrs Josephine Teo: The Toy Library is a new service piloted at Punggol Library as part of the National Library Board’s (NLB’s) aim to provide accessible learning resources and foster community connections through its network of public libraries. NLB’s current focus remains on promoting reading and literacy in children. To support this aim, it offers lending and book delivery services. There are no plans to provide a toy-lending service.
Efficacy Of Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage Programme And Sterilisation Rates Of Community Cats In Managing And Controlling Community Cat Population
Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for National Development in view of the estimates of 13,000 to 60,000 free-roaming cats, (a) what population figure underpins the planning of the Trap-Neuter-Rehome/Release-Manage (TNRM) Programme; (b) how does current sterilisation rate compares with estimated annual kitten births; (c) when will sterilisation outpace reproduction; and (d) what is the target sterilisation percentage for community cats.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: There are around 13,000 free-roaming cats in publicly accessible areas in Singapore. The National Parks Board targets to achieve a sterilisation rate of at least 70% by end-2030 to manage the population sustainably.
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik
Combating Online Xenophobia Targeting New Citizens Through Stronger Digital Regulations
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) what measures are in place to address online hate speech and xenophobic abuse targeted at new citizens; and (b) whether the Ministry will consider stronger enforcement or legislative action to deter such behaviour and ensure a safe and inclusive digital environment.
Mrs Josephine Teo: We deal with hate and offensive speech against new citizens in the same way as those born here.
Under the Broadcasting Act, the Infocomm Media Development Authority can direct Internet Content Providers to take down material that is against national harmony or direct Online Communication Services to disable access to egregious content, including content likely to cause racial or religious disharmony in Singapore.
In addition, there are criminal laws to deal with speech that could wound racial or religious feelings. For example, under the Penal Code, it is an offence to commit acts that promote enmity between different racial groups, or that are prejudicial to the maintenance of racial harmony. If these acts are perpetuated online, the Online Criminal Harms Act allows the Government to restrict access of Singapore users to such content. In 2019, the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Act was also amended to strengthen the Government’s ability to respond effectively to threats against religious harmony in the digital age. There are similar provisions under the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Act passed earlier this year.
The Ministry of Digital Development and Information, and the Ministry of Law, will soon table the Online Safety (Relief and Accountability) Bill to establish the new Online Safety Commission by the first half of 2026. The Commission is a dedicated agency that will support victims of specified online harms (e.g. incitement of enmity or violence against any group), to seek timely relief from perpetrators and platforms.
Utilisation Rates Of Overseas Markets Immersion Programme Funding By Smes And Supporting Access To Funding
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked the Minister for Manpower what proportion of the Overseas Markets Immersion Programme's budget has been utilised by SMEs to date under the programme; and (b) what specific support measures are in place to ensure that SMEs can effectively access the programme.
Dr Tan See Leng: The Overseas Markets Immersion Programme (OMIP) aims to encourage companies to send local employees with little or no overseas experience for overseas work postings. We have set aside $16 million over two years to support up to 250 local employees for this programme. Since OMIP was rolled out in 2024, more than 70 locals have been posted overseas, and more than 75% of the companies that have participated in the programme are SMEs.
OMIP is aimed at developing the local workforce and is open for application to both SME and non-SME companies. Companies that require support in their application may approach the Singapore Business Federation (SBF), our Programme Partner for OMIP, to receive tailored support and guidance in accessing OMIP. SBF conducts regular briefing sessions on OMIP's programme details and application procedures. We encourage all companies to leverage OMIP to develop their local workforce while supporting their internationalisation plans.
Mr Pritam Singh
Demographics Of Food Delivery Platform Workers And Foreign Worker Impact On Incomes Of Local Platform Workers
Mr Pritam Singh asked the Minister for Manpower to date, (a) what is the total number of platform workers undertaking food delivery; (b) how many are Singaporeans and PRs respectively as registered by platform operators; (c) how does the Ministry ensure the number of foreigners undertaking food delivery work does not affect the incomes of local platform workers; and (d) how does it track the ratio of local and foreign platform workers.
Dr Tan See Leng: In 2024, there were 15,300 Singapore residents who regularly worked as delivery platform workers, covering both food and parcel delivery services. They comprise 13,400 Singapore Citizens and 1,900 Permanent Residents. The Ministry of Manpower (MOM) does not track the number of platform workers undertaking food delivery specifically, as platform workers have the flexibility to undertake different types of delivery jobs, such as food or parcel delivery or both. Only Singaporeans and Permanent Residents can be platform workers, as MOM does not issue work passes for foreigners in this sector. MOM will take enforcement action against any foreigners found working illegally as platform workers, and the local platform workers who abet them.
While platform operators can legitimately outsource jobs to third-party logistics companies who may hire foreigners with valid work passes, the number of foreigners is capped at the industry’s dependency ratio ceiling. These foreigners are not platform workers, and can only work for a single employer under an employer-employee relationship. They are also paid a fixed monthly salary by their parent company, and are not remunerated on a per-job basis by the platform operator.
The Government will continue to work closely with platform work associations, tripartite partners, and platform operators to support the well-being and livelihoods of our platform workers. As part of the Platform Workers Trilateral Group’s recommendations, food delivery platform operators that outsource jobs have agreed to (a) provide more clarity and assurance to platform workers on their outsourcing practices; (b) encourage platform workers to head to high demand areas to reduce the need to outsource jobs; and (c) require outsourced companies to submit foreign workers’ work pass documentation and conduct audits where work is outsourced through their app.
Citizenship Demographics Of Hired Bus Captains And Drivers From 2015 To 2024
Mr Pritam Singh asked the Acting Minister for Transport for each year from 2015 to 2024, how many bus captains and drivers across the public transport sector are (i) Singaporeans (ii) Permanent Residents and (iii) foreigners, respectively.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: The total number of bus captains has increased by about 9%, from around 8,900 in 2015 to around 9,700 in 2024. The nationality breakdown of bus captains has remained largely stable throughout this period, with the exception of the COVID-19 pandemic which saw a dip in the proportion of foreign bus captains. As of December 2024, around 28%, 15% and 57% of our bus captains are Singaporeans, Permanent Residents and foreign work pass holders respectively.
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre
Formal Tracking Of Intergenerational Wealth Transfers In Resale Property Purchases Towards Housing Affordability
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Ministry formally tracks the proportion of private and HDB resale property purchases that are funded significantly by intergenerational wealth transfers; and (b) what is the Ministry's assessment of the impact of such wealth transfers on housing affordability in the private residential and HDB resale markets respectively.
Mr Chee Hong Tat: The information which the Member asked for is not available.
Long-Term Cost-Benefit Effects Of Singapore’s Electrification Efforts On Bus Fares
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre asked the Acting Minister for Transport with the Government’s increasing emphasis on electric vehicle fleet expertise in public bus tenders, (a) what is the Ministry’s long-term cost-benefit analysis of accelerating this green transition; and (b) what safeguards are in place to ensure that the capital costs associated with electrification do not translate into significant fare increases for commuters over the next decade.
Mr Jeffrey Siow: Besides contributing to Singapore’s net zero emissions commitment, the transition of our public bus fleet to cleaner energy vehicles will improve air quality and public health of commuters. Currently, we are replacing only buses nearing end of life with electric buses. The life cycle costs of electric buses is similar to that of diesel buses, with higher procurement cost offset by lower fuel and maintenance expenses. As technology improves and costs continue to come down, we may be able to accelerate the transition to electric buses without a significant impact on the cost of providing public bus services or public transport fares.
