Hansard, Wednesday, 5 March 2025

1 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Transport (a) whether more measures can be put in place to detect non-compliant active mobility devices (AMDs) considering the increased incidence of AMD-related fires in 2024; (b) whether enforcement officers are adequately trained to identify modifications on non-compliant AMDs during spot-checks; (c) whether the frequency of spot checks on shops that repair or sell AMDs can be increased; and (d) whether more stringent penalties can be imposed to deter illegal modifications, especially for repeat offenders.

Mr Speaker, we adopt a multi-pronged approach in the enforcement against non-compliant active mobility devices (AMDs).

First, we work closely with Singapore Customs, and the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA) to curb the inflow of non-compliant AMDs into Singapore.

Second, our enforcement officers conduct operations daily to enforce against non-compliant devices on paths, as well as retailers selling non-compliant devices. Our officers undergo regular training to be updated on the latest violation trends, and are equipped with a variety of detection tools. Most recently, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) conducted an ambush operation in Punggol and seized four non-compliant AMDs. We will continue to conduct regular and targeted enforcement operations.

Third, we require e-scooters, which are required to be registered for use, to undergo inspections every two years to ensure compliance with regulations.

Fourth, we impose significant penalties on illegal modifications of AMDs for deterrence, given the risks they pose. All offenders, including first-time offenders, will be taken to court. Individuals who are first-time offenders are liable for a fine of up to $20,000 or an imprisonment term of up to 24 months, or both, while retailers who are first-time offenders are liable for fines up to $40,000. Repeat offenders are liable for higher fines and/or imprisonment terms.

We will continue to review regulations relating to AMDs, to enhance fire safety and deter the sale, purchase and use of non-compliant devices.

Mr Yip.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for his response. I have several Yio Chu Kang residents coming to me, expressing concerns about AMDs and fires related to AMDs.

Considering the role that retailers, repair shops and especially online shops play in the modification and maintenance of AMDs, how does the Ministry determine the current frequency of inspections for these establishments? What criteria are being used to assess compliance and are there plans to increase inspection frequency or implement additional measures to ensure adherence to safety standards? And lastly, what is being done to ensure compliance of safe devices being sold by online retailers?

Sir, LTA has enhanced enforcement operations. In particular, for retailer operations, the number of operations mounted over the years has increased; in fact, it has increased four-folds, in 2022 compared to 2024. So, we will continue our efforts.

The challenge is with online retailers. As the Member has rightly pointed out, it is difficult for us to go after or to track what people are selling or buying online. However, we will be introducing regulations for online marketplace platforms and shops, in respect of non-compliant devices. We will share more later this year and we hope that this would help us in our efforts against sale, purchase and use of non-compliant devices.

Dr Tan.

I thank the Ministry of Transport (MOT) for sharing that there are plans to introduce regulations to address the issue of online shops selling AMDs that are in breach and unsafe. Can I ask MOT whether as part of the regulation review, they will be looking at how liability is assigned when a device has been purchased from an online shop, and let us say subsequently, there is a fire. In short, does the Ministry agree that the liability should not be any different regardless of whether the item was bought from an online retailer or from an offline, brick and mortar real world retailer? Because the fire burns as hot and as damaging, regardless of where the defective product came from.

When we look at reviewing the regulations against online retailers, we look at how we can align the rules that we apply on brick and mortar retailers as well. If a retailer knowingly sells a non-compliant device or an illegally modified device, the retailer must be held responsible. But if the purchaser subsequently modifies the device, then the purchaser or the owner of the device must be responsible. In cases where we are able to investigate and conclude which is the party that is responsible for the illegal modifications, the relevant party will be taken to task.

Mr Dennis Tan.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for his answers. The Senior Parliamentary Secretary mentioned about actions against retailers. I have two supplementary questions. One is regarding these retailers. In the past, I believe in the previous Committees of Supply or Bills, I have suggested for the Government to take action at the Customs level, when retailers import illegal AMDs. Can I ask the Senior Parliamentary Secretary to update the House on what efforts are being taken to stop the import of illegal AMDs at our border?

Secondly, can I ask the Government to consider allocating more budget and resources to LTA for better enforcement efforts and better public education efforts against non-compliant AMDs? Whether in terms of fire risk or when they are in use generally in the public, for example. Because we still see that there are many non-compliant devices being used on the road, for example, those using throttle or those with weight issues and also illegal speed modification, and bearing in mind that LTA will also be requiring more resources soon as they seek to enforce the new regulations on mobility scooters.

Yes, indeed, as said in my reply, we work closely with the Customs and ICA to curb the import of such devices. In fact, we have forfeited devices that were unauthorised imports, whether by companies or individuals. So, we work with our border agencies to do that.

Yes, I thank the Member for also asking for more resources for LTA to mount all these operations on the paths, in the public spaces to catch users or the use of non-compliant devices. We will do our best with our limited resources. We will tap on technology, whether speed cameras, surveillance cameras, devices, tools to be able to help our enforcement officers to do their work better and more efficiently.

2 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Home Affairs in view of the two-year recidivism rate for inmates released from drug rehabilitation centres (DRCs) reaching the highest since 2015 (a) what factors have contributed to the rise in the recidivism rate; (b) whether the Ministry is reviewing the effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes within DRCs; and (c) where do drug abusers obtain their supplies from and whether the increased accessibility to drugs has contributed to the increase in recidivism rate.

Sir, the recidivism rate is influenced by many factors, including the extent of the ex-offender’s family or peer support after their release into the community, as well as their ability to remain gainfully employed.

In 2019, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) changed the drug rehabilitation regime such that abusers who are arrested for the third and subsequent times are sent to the Drug Rehabilitation Centre (DRC) for rehabilitation, instead of being prosecuted and subject to an extended imprisonment term. Since this change, the proportion of repeat drug abusers in the DRC release cohorts has increased from about 35% for the 2020 release cohort to 54% for the 2022 release cohort. Repeat drug abusers have a higher likelihood of reoffending and this may have contributed to the increase in the recidivism rate of DRC inmates.

Singapore Prison Service (SPS) regularly reviews the DRC regime to ensure it remains effective in addressing the drug abusers’ risks and needs. For example, to better prepare drug abusers for release, SPS recently established the Re-integration Hub to centralise the pre-emplacement regime for drug abusers who are scheduled for release on community-based programmes.

Drug abusers obtain drugs from various sources, including through platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp. To curb the accessibility and supply of drugs into Singapore, the Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) regularly orders online platforms to take down material advertising the sale of controlled drugs and takes tough action against drug traffickers as well as syndicates operating from overseas. Last year, CNB dismantled 25 drug syndicates and made significant drug seizures with an estimated market value of about $13.5 million. CNB will continue with its robust enforcement efforts to stem the supply of drugs and keep Singapore drug-free.

Mr Yip.

I thank the Minister of State for his reply. The Minister of State mentioned that repeat drug abusers have a higher likelihood of reoffending. What are two-year recidivism rates of those with drug antecedents compared to those without drug antecedents? And recognising that re-integration into society is critical for preventing relapse, what post-release support systems are currently in place for former DRC inmates and how does the Ministry collaborate with community organisations to ensure continuous support? And are there plans to expand these initiatives?

Sir, I thank the Member for the supplementary question. Indeed, based on the two-year recidivism rate, inmates with previous drug antecedents are approximately three times more likely to reoffend than those without.

If you look at the release cohorts over five years, you can see that the recidivism rates are also different, about three times more. When we look at the recidivism rate for the release cohort in 2018, for those with drug antecedents, it was 29.9%. For release cohort 2019, it was 27.4%. For release cohort 2020, it was 26.9%. For release cohort 2021, it was 29.2%. For release cohort 2022, it was 29.7%.

And if you look at those without drug antecedents, so, for the 2018 cohort, with drug antecedents, it was 29.9%, and without drug antecedents, it was 11.6%. For 2019, with drug antecedents, it was 27.4%, compared to without drug antecedents, it was 9.8%. For 2020, with drug antecedents, it was 26.9%, without drug antecedents, it was 9.4%. For release cohort 2021, with drug antecedents, it was 29.2%, and without drug antecedents, it was 9.4%. And the recent one, for release cohort 2022, with drug antecedents, it was 29.7%, and without drug antecedents, it was 9.8%.

So, with this we know the harms that drugs do to individuals. That is why we go upstream to work with the community to see how we can prevent anyone, even one person, from taking drugs, because we know drugs are harmful.

We have extensive preventive drug education programmes and then, recently, we launched the Inter-Ministry Committee on Drug Prevention for Youths, and we have organisations coming onboard to help us with Dadah Itu Haram programmes. It is about reaching out to the community so that we can help our people to stay away from drugs.

This is important. I hope that we can get support from the House as well as society here in Singapore, fellow Singaporeans, because when you do not have a tough stance on drugs, it will seep into the society, it will break the society, destroy the society. Many of my counterparts that I have met overseas shared with me, without them knowing, some of their countries have become a narco-state.

So, we want to make sure we help Singaporeans to have avenues for a pro-social quality of life. What is key is that we must make sure that while there are those who just do drug abusing, consumption, but we have seen how drug consumption have led to criminal activities. So, when someone is arrested, not only for drug consumption, but with some criminality aspect, it gets difficult and it gets more complicated. It will destroy the families, it will destroy the society, not only the individual. So, I hope that we can work together on this.

While there are those who have been arrested for consumption or any related drug antecedent, we want to help them. Essentially, that is why we have the Re-integration Hub, where we bring in programmes relating to employment, relating to how they can improve their social esteem and also how they can feel they have a sense of belonging. There are also religious programmes at the Re-integration Hub.

We also have organisations, platforms like the Yellow Ribbon Community Project, Malay/Muslim Organisations Rehabilitation Network, Prison Fellowship, Hindu Centre, coming on board to help us. Recently, we also roll out the Desistor Network to get these desistors to play a part in this effort. It is about enhancing all these efforts together so that we will continue to support them, even though they have taken drugs. They have abused drugs, they have committed an offence, but we want to provide them with second chances, so that they can build up their lives for better days ahead.

3 Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Home Affairs in view of the number of people killed and injured in traffic accidents in 2024 at a five-year high (a) what are the profiles of speeding motorists in terms of age, gender, nationality, years of driving experience and types of vehicles driven; (b) whether public education and penalties can be adapted to target groups at higher risks of offending; (c) what are the main reasons for speeding violations; and (d) what new measures will be considered to reduce drink-driving incidents.

Sir, based on the data on speeding violations in 2024, males, Singapore Citizens and those driving cars are disproportionately represented amongst speeding offenders. As for age, nothing stands out. The Traffic Police (TP) does not track the data based on years of driving experience.

TP collaborates with community partners to conduct public education campaigns for different road user groups. For example, we have the annual Anti-Drink Drive campaign and Singapore Road Safety Month campaign, with the latter, focusing on a different theme every year, depending on the traffic trends.

TP complements this with engagement of vulnerable road users, such as elderly pedestrians and children, with different campaigns addressing the specific behaviours of each group. As for the penalty framework, those who commit multiple offences or are recalcitrant offenders can expect to receive higher penalties.

Egregious offenders are more likely to face prosecution in court instead of being offered composition. In addition, the Road Traffic Act mandates heavier penalties, such as suspension of licence and mandatory minimum sentences for certain profiles of repeat offenders.

TP does not track the reasons for speeding. That said, commonly cited excuses include the lack of awareness of the speed limit or of the speed at which the motorist was travelling, and urgency to reach to reach appointments.

Drink driving is a major concern for TP. To tackle this, we increased our penalties in 2019 with mandatory imprisonment and mandatory disqualification of licence for dangerous and careless driving offences, if the offenders were under the influence of alcohol. TP has also intensified enforcement against drink driving. In addition, we are reviewing the maximum allowable breath and blood alcohol concentration limits and will announce the details when ready.

Ms Pereira.

Thank you, Speaker. I have two supplementary questions for the Minister of State. I would like to ask, first whether the red-light cameras have been effective in improving the enforcement of speeding offences since 1 April 2024. Second, what are the state of progress and future plans for the island wide roll-out of using red-light cameras to detect speeding offences, if the red light cameras are effective?

I thank the Member for the supplementary questions. Indeed, TP's use of the red-light cameras with the speeding enforcement function has been effective in deterring speeding.

If Members can remember, at the initial part, there was an initial increase in speeding violations at red light camera locations where the speed enforcement function was activated. But we saw a gradual decrease over time. So, we are pleased that people are more cognisant of the fact that they need to be careful, they need to make sure that they practise road safety habits and so forth.

So, with this in mind, we will also continue to activate the speed enforcement function on more red-light cameras in 2025 and at the same time, we will also do more enforcement work on the ground.

4 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what are the Government's key considerations in deciding to tighten regulations for digital payment token service providers, including the prohibition of payments via locally issued credit cards; and (b) what is the anticipated impact on younger consumers, particularly those aged 18 to 25, who are increasingly adopting the use of cryptocurrencies.

Sir, cryptocurrencies are highly volatile and speculative in nature and are usually not anchored on any fundamental value. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) has consistently issued public warnings that dealing in cryptocurrencies is hazardous, highly risky and not suitable for the general public.

If an individual uses his credit card to purchase cryptocurrencies, he could be borrowing from the credit card, which attracts a higher rate of interest than other forms of credit. If the value of the cryptocurrencies fall, he may suffer substantial losses and be unable to pay off his credit card debt, with the higher rate of interest compounding his debt.

More generally, using credit or leverage magnifies losses and investors can lose more than the principal amount they put in. MAS has therefore prohibited digital payment token service providers from providing credit or leverage to all retail customers, regardless of age, for the purchase of cryptocurrencies. This includes restrictions on their acceptance of credit cards.

MAS cautions that regulatory measures cannot insulate consumers from losses associated with the inherently speculative and highly risky nature of cryptocurrencies. Consumers should steer clear of cryptocurrencies.

Mr Yip Hon Weng.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Minister of State for his reply. What is MAS' view on banning cryptocurrencies and will it lead to consumers going underground? And given that individuals aged 18 to 25 are increasingly adopting cryptocurrencies, what specific factors did the Ministry consider regarding this demographic when formulating these regulations? And how does the Ministry plan to address these unique financial literacy and risk exposure challenges faced by younger consumers?

Sir, I thank Mr Yip for his supplementary questions. I will start with the second one, and that is, the Government will continue to step up communications to warn consumers of all ages on the hazardous nature and the highly risky, volatile nature of cryptocurrencies. And that does not just apply to the youths, but it also applies to any consumer who deals with cryptocurrencies.

On the broader perspective of what MAS' views are on cryptocurrency, MAS seeks to foster an innovative and responsible digital asset ecosystem. But this is very different, and there is a sharp distinction that we need to draw between growing an innovative and responsible digital asset ecosystem, and the distinction between that and speculation in cryptocurrency, which MAS has consistently discouraged to the retail public.

With regard to the banning of cryptocurrencies, the Member would understand and realise that cryptocurrency trading and services are cross border in nature. And so, such a prohibition may be unlikely to be effective in limiting its harms. In fact, as the Member alluded to, imposing a prohibition could likely lead to some consumers turning to unlicensed cryptocurrency exchanges to access cryptocurrency services, where consumers might not be properly informed of the risks to make well-informed decisions. Therefore, to reduce the risk to consumers from speculative trading in cryptocurrencies, MAS requires that digital payment token service providers ensure proper business conduct and provide adequate risk disclosures.

In fact, these regulatory measures are comprehensive to reduce consumer harm in Singapore. They include consumer access provisions, business conduct provisions, as well as technology risk provisions. But our message is clear, it is consistent: consumers should steer clear of cryptocurrencies.

Assoc Prof James Lim, a short supplementary question to give the Minister of State time to answer.

Thank you, Speaker, for your indulgence. I had filed a crypto-related question yesterday about holdings by our Sovereign Wealth Funds (SWFs). I am wondering if I could follow-up a little little bit on that.

I fully agree with the Minister of State that for the retail investor, there are substantial risks. But I think there is an evolving understanding of the role of cryptocurrencies as a balancing asset, much like gold. And while I do not take any position about the utility of it in our SWF portfolios, I am wondering if MAS has a view about what it means for institutional investors, whether at the SWF level or institutional investors in the Singapore financial ecosystem.

Sir, I thank Assoc Prof James Lim for his question. I think that that question has been answered yesterday as a written Parliamentary Question, about that position. I also wanted to clarify with the Member what is his, and as well as the party's position, on cryptocurrency in general.

Assoc Prof Lim, do you want to respond?

Sure, I am happy to explain that for me, I do not hold any inherent favour or not. But I would like to understand what cryptocurrency means for institutional investors, much like how we draw a distinction between encouraging retail investors with a certain kinds of asset investments, as opposed to institutional investors.

Sir, the answer was quite clear yesterday that our investment entities make professional investments decisions to take long-term orientation. And so, they invest in assets that are anchored to underlying economic fundamentals with the potential for long-term value increase. Cryptocurrencies do not fit this profile.

Order. End of Question Time. Introduction of Government Bill.

[Pursuant to Standing Order No 22(3), provided that Members had not asked for questions standing in their names to be postponed to a later Sitting day or withdrawn, written answers to questions not reached by the end of Question Time are reproduced in the Appendix.]

[(proc text) "to amend the Competition Act 2004 and the Enterprise Singapore Board Act 2018 to transfer the product safety functions and the legal metrology functions of the Enterprise Singapore Board to the Competition and Consumer Commission of Singapore and to make related and consequential amendments to the Consumer Protection (Trade Descriptions and Safety Requirements) Act 1975 and the Weights and Measures Act 1975", (proc text)]

[(proc text) presented by the Senior Minister of State for Trade and Industry (Ms Low Yen Ling) on behalf of the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, read the First time; to be read a Second time on the next available Sitting of Parliament, and to be printed. (proc text)]

[(proc text) Order read for consideration in Committee of Supply [4th Allotted Day]. (proc text)]

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

[(proc text) Head T (cont) – (proc text)]

[(proc text) Resumption of Debate on Question [4 March 2025], (proc text)]

[(proc text) "That the total sum to be allocated for Head T of the Estimates be reduced by $100." – [Miss Cheryl Chan Wei Ling]. (proc text)]

[(proc text) Question again proposed. (proc text)]

Minister Desmond Lee.

Mr Chairman, at the start of this term of Government, we faced significant challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. It was against this backdrop that I outlined the Ministry of National Development's (MND's) priorities during the Debate on the President's Address in 2020.

First, we committed to keep public housing affordable, accessible and inclusive. Second, we said that we will transform Singapore into a City in Nature, one that is more liveable and sustainable. Third, we would continue uplifting our Built Environment (BE) sector, to make it more productive and resilient.

We worked with colleagues, stakeholders and the community to deliver on these priorities. Today, I will speak on housing as well as the BE sector transformation. My colleague, Second Minister Indranee Rajah, will cover long-term planning for our city and support for our construction firms. Senior Minister of State Sim Ann will share our efforts to enhance our living environment. Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How will touch on how we are transforming Singapore into a City in Nature, and Minister of State Faishal Ibrahim will speak about what we are doing for lower-income households.

Let me start with our first priority: affordable and accessible housing. Over the past few years, we grappled with significant housing challenges. The pandemic severely impacted supply. Fear of housing delays also caused demand to spike.

At the same time, there was a broad-based increase in demand driven by changing social norms. Application rates for Build-To-Order (BTO) flats spiked and Housing and Development Board (HDB) resale prices rose sharply. We rolled out various measures over the last few years to address this supply-demand imbalance.

First, we pushed hard to complete the flats delayed by COVID-19. In January this year, HDB caught up on the delays and completed all 75,800 flats that were affected by the pandemic.

Second, we ramped up supply of new housing. We are on track to exceed our commitment to launch 100,000 BTO flats from 2021 to 2025. This is the equivalent of two Ang Mo Kio towns in less than five years, despite the pandemic.

Third, we brought down overall waiting times. We have shortened the median waiting times for BTO flats. In 2024, the median waiting time was less than four years, comparable to the pre-COVID-19 norm of three to four years. We had also previously committed that by 2025, we will build 2,000 to 3,000 shorter waiting time flats, which are flats with a waiting time of two-plus years.

We met this target one year ahead of schedule when we launched more than 2,800 shorter waiting time flats last year in 2024. As a result, BTO application rates for first-timer families have stabilised to below pre-COVID-19 levels, from 3.7 times in 2019 to 2.1 times in 2024. In the most recent February 2025 sales exercise, first-timer family application rates fell further to 1.5 times subscription. This means that first-timer families applying for BTO flats are more likely to receive an invitation to book a flat today than it was before the pandemic.

On the private housing front, we have increased supply through the Government Land Sales (GLS) programme. In 2024, we released land for around 11,000 private housing units, which is the highest in a single year since 2013.

As a result, the private housing market started to ease in recent years. Private residential property prices increased by 3.9% in 2024, compared to 6.8% in 2023 and 8.6% in 2022, but we will keep pushing on to increase housing supply, to help more Singaporeans meet their housing needs.

This year, we will launch more than 25,000 flats. This includes 19,600 BTO flats and more than 5,500 Sale of Balance flats (SBF) flats. We will also raise private housing supply from the GLS programme to around 8,500 units in the first half of 2025, with more to come later this year. From 2025 to 2027, we will launch more than 50,000 BTO flats.

We will also continue to shorten waiting times. This year, we will launch another 3,800 Shorter Waiting Time flats (SWT). This means that 20% of all BTO flats launched this year in 2025 will be a SWT flat. We launched our largest ever SBF exercise last month, and we will be launching another SBF exercise later this year.

These flats will cover a wide range of locations. This year alone, HDB will be launching BTO flats in around 60% of our towns and estates. Singaporeans can also look forward to more flats in attractive locations, such as Mount Pleasant. With your permission, Mr Chairman, may I display some slides on the LED screens?

Go ahead. [Slides were shown to hon Members.]

Thank you, Sir. The first of six BTO projects in Mount Pleasant will be launched in October 2025. The first Mount Pleasant project will be a sizeable development, with approximately 1,500 units of 2-room flexi to 4-room flats, including public rental flats. It will be near the future Mount Pleasant Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) station on the Thomson East Coast Line. There will be an eating house and a supermarket within the precinct. Residents will be able to cycle to MacRitchie Reservoir to enjoy nature.

The Toa Payoh Town Centre and the future Toa Payoh Integrated Development will not be far away, with supermarkets, a polyclinic, a library, sports facilities and more. The new estate will be inspired by the area's rich heritage. Six buildings from the Old Police Academy have been conserved.

Even as we ramp up supply, we have kept new flats affordable. We have increased market subsidies for BTO flats to keep them affordable for households, with a wide range of incomes. We also raised the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant (EHG) last year. First-timer families can now receive up to $120,000 in grants, with lower middle-income households getting more support.

As a result in 2024, more than eight in 10 first-timer families who collected keys to their BTO flats were able to service their HDB loans using their their Central Provident Fund (CPF), with little to no cash outlay. We have taken major steps to ensure that public housing in attractive locations like Mount Pleasant remain affordable. This also ensures that they remain inclusive, an important part of Singapore's social compact, so that Singaporeans of different backgrounds and income levels can live in the same neighbourhood.

At the same time, we need to reduce the lottery effect for those who successfully ballot for such flats, to keep the system of subsidies fair. This is something Miss Cheryl Chan had asked about. We took the first major step four years ago with the Prime Location Public Housing (PLH) model in 2021. In October last year, we took another big step with the new flat classification framework, categorising BTO projects into Standard, Plus and Prime. We will launch the first Mount Pleasant project as either Plus or Prime. This allows us to unlock new, choicier areas for affordable public housing.

Take the Redhill area near the MRT station, for example. It is currently built up with private residential properties etched in pink. These can be expensive as Redhill is a highly sought-after location. But HDB launched Alexandra Vale in 2022, and then Alexandra Peaks in 2023 in the same area, all under the PLH model.

In July 2025, we will be launching another two BTO projects in the area under the new flat classification framework, one next to Alexandra Peaks and another along Tanglin Road. One of the blocks in Alexandra Peaks will also house public rental flats, allowing lower-income households access to public rental options in these prime areas.

How affordable are Plus and Prime flats? In October last year, Mr Chua Heng Wee and Ms Shermaine Ho, a young couple, applied for a 4-room BTO Plus flat in Merpati Alcove, in Macpherson. They were successful and booked a flat on a high floor early this year, for around $620,000, before grants.

Merpati Alcove is in a very good location, right at the doorstep of Mattar MRT station and within walking distance to the Circuit Road Food Centre. With a combined income of around $7,800 today, they received an EHG of $20,000 and were able to service their mortgage with low cash outlay.

For prime flats, let us look at Tanjong Rhu Parc Front in Tanjong Rhu, which we launched last month. It is a very attractive project near the city centre and a short distance from the riverfront. A 4-room BTO Prime flat in that project is around $640,000, before grants.

A couple with a combined income of $8,500 would receive an EHG of $10,000 and will be able to service their mortgage with a monthly cash outlay of about $180. This is what we mean when we say that we will seek to ensure a wide range of affordable housing options for Singaporeans with different housing budgets.

Let me now turn to the HDB resale market. Singaporeans have been anxious about resale flat prices. Mr Xie Yao Quan asked how resale flats can be kept affordable for Singaporeans. I mentioned earlier that the supply-demand imbalance had led to high resale prices. In these past few years, we have also seen fewer flats reaching their minimum occupation period (MOP), due to fewer flat completions during the pandemic.

In fact, in 2020, HDB should have completed 20,000 flats, but because of the disruptions by the pandemic, we completed fewer than half of that. So, five years on in 2025, with much fewer flats completing their MOP and even fewer flats going on the resale market. The supply tightness should start to recover next year. We expect to see a larger supply of flats entering the resale market, providing options for Singaporeans. There will be a significant jump in the number of new flats reaching MOP, from 8,000 this year, to 13,500 next year, and this will steadily increase until we hit 19,500 in 2028.

The cooling measures that we implemented will also continue to work their way through the market. Taken together, the HDB resale market will stabilise. We will also improve housing accessibility for all Singaporeans. But let me assure first-timer families that we will continue to prioritise you for new flats. First, we tighten the rules on non-selection of flats, to give priority for those with genuine, pressing housing needs.

Next, we also introduced the First-timer (Parents and Married Couples) (or FT(PMC)) category. We have seen positive outcomes so far. Take Ms Nicole Chong and Mr Christopher Edward Sean. They decided to solemnise their marriage before applying for their flat. This made them eligible for the FT(PMC) category. With that, they managed to book their 4-room Standard flat in Sengkang on their very first try!

Nicole and Christopher are just one of the many couples who have benefited from these priority schemes. About nine in 10 First-Timer Parents' and Married Couple applicants have so far been invited to book a flat when they applied for a 4-room or smaller Standard flat. This means that virtually all of them were given the chance to book a flat within two tries in categories where they are given first priority. We have also provided more support to families who need a place to stay while waiting to collect their keys.

Today, we provide subsidised temporary housing through the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS). In recent exercises, all eligible applicants who are married with children aged 18 and below have been invited to select a PPHS flat. We will double PPHS supply again from 2,000 to 4,000 PPHS flats this year. And we have come a long way since 2021, when we started out with 800 PPHS flats. So, some five times increase.

Mr Louis Ng asked whether the Government will consider allowing single unwed parents to qualify for PPHS. To all single parents who have needs, HDB will not turn away your request for housing assistance. We will take a holistic approach to every case and, depending on the needs, we may assist with interim rental housing.

So, for those who are eligible for the schemes that I have mentioned, they likely can book a flat on their first or second try, based on current trends. Then, they can apply for temporary subsidised rental housing through the PPHS. If they booked a SWT flat, they will be able to collect their keys in two-plus years.

Miss Cheryl Chan asked how we plan to keep housing affordable. Aside from first-timer families, we recognise that there are more singles looking to own their own home. Over the years, we have provided singles with greater access to public housing. In the past, singles 35 and above were only allowed to buy HDB resale flats. Then in 2013, the Government allowed first-timer singles to purchase new 2-room BTO flats, but only in non-mature estates.

In recent years, we have made further moves. From October last year, we allowed first-timer singles to apply for 2-room Flexi BTO flats island-wide, including in Prime and Plus locations, and not just Standard. Just last month, one in four of the flats offered at the launch was a 2-room Flexi flat. In fact, we will launch up to 14,000 2-room Flexi BTO flats from 2024 to 2026 and the majority of these will continue to be set aside for singles. From the middle of this year, we will move beyond just access, to providing priority access for singles who wish to live near or with their parents, under the new Family Care Scheme. We also want to look at the needs of other groups, including second-timer families.

In 2022, we had reduced the proportion of BTO supply set aside for second-timer families in order to better prioritise first-timer families because, if Members remember then, first-timer application rates had increased significantly. Application rates for first-timer families have come down. We also hear the concerns of second-timer families who need to buy another subsidised flat. And these include families which have grown and others who may wish to right-size due to financial reasons.

Therefore, we will allow more second-timer families to buy BTO flats by increasing the second-timer allocation quota by five percentage points for 3-room and larger flats. This change will take effect from the July 2025 BTO exercise, that is, the next BTO exercise. HDB will release more details closer to the date. We do not expect significant impact on the application rates for first-timer families as we are continuing to build more BTO flats to meet demand.

We will continue to review our policies to see if there is scope to improve access further for different groups, such as singles and others. Mr Henry Kwek and Miss Cheryl Chan have also asked if we can raise our BTO and Executive Condominium (EC) income ceilings.

Our BTO income ceiling today still covers about eight in 10 Singaporean households. New flats and housing subsidies are prioritised for those who need them more. For those with incomes up to $16,000, we will be increasing EC supply this year to around 1,500 units, up from around 1,200 units in previous years. Those within and above this income bracket, can also choose from a wide range of resale HDB flats or private residential properties, for which there is no income ceiling. We will continue to keep an eye on income growth and market conditions, and will raise the income ceilings when the time is right.

Our second priority is to keep public housing inclusive. We will continue to support the housing needs of different segments of Singaporeans. One segment is our lower-income and vulnerable households, who do not have other housing options and family support at this time. We are making significant moves through the Fresh Start Housing Scheme to support public rental tenants on their home ownership journey, as Prime Minister Lawrence Wong had announced during his Budget Statement. My colleague, Minister of State Faishal Ibrahim, will share more details later.

Sir, another group would be our seniors. Under the Age Well SG programme, we are making our environment more senior-friendly. Miss Cheryl Chan, Ms Carrie Tan and Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin had asked about this.

At the HDB estate level, we will be introducing senior-friendly enhancements for selected HDB estates under the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme (NRP) and the Silver Upgrading Programme. These include fitness trails to support healthy living, as well as rest points along pathways to boost walkability.

Within the home, HDB offers subsidised senior-friendly fittings under the Enhancement for Active Seniors programme (EASE). These fittings help to improve the mobility and safety of seniors in their own homes. We expanded the range of subsidised fittings under EASE 2.0 last year, to include fittings like foldable U-grab bars, home fire alarm devices and more. Since EASE and EASE 2.0 were introduced, about 340,000 households have signed up.

Beyond HDB estates, we also plan to help seniors in private residential properties age-in-place. Mr Henry Kwek, Ms Joan Pereira and Ms Denise Phua asked for more details.

We have expanded the scope of the Estate Upgrading Programme (EUP) to include senior-friendly enhancements, such as barrier-free ramps and covered drains for more walkways. We also have a new EUP for Silver Estates, so that these benefits can reach selected estates that have benefited from EUP some time ago.

We will do more to improve the safety and mobility of our seniors living in private homes within their own home. We will introduce a new programme, EASE(Private), as the Prime Minister had announced during Budget. I remember Ms Denise Phua and Ms Ng Ling Ling asking MND last year to consider this.

EASE(Private) will be available to Singaporean Citizen households living in private properties with at least one senior aged 65 years and above, or who are between 60 and 64 years old and require assistance with at least one of the Activities of Daily Living (ADL). More than 70,000 households will be eligible for subsidies to engage contractors to install a basic list of senior-friendly fittings in their homes, such as grab bars. The Government will subsidise 75% of the cost of these fittings, with the subsidies capped at $1,200.

EASE(Private) is targeted to commence early next year and will be a three-year pilot programme for a start and then, we will have a review. Aside from improvements to the estate and home, we understand that Singaporeans are also concerned about retirement adequacy. Mr Pritam Singh has asked about this. We hear the concerns that those who buy older resale flats might not have saved enough for retirement. But do not worry, we have a system in place today to help home buyers balance between meeting their housing and retirement needs. And a home is also a store of value for retirement.

For those who buy older resale flats, there are limits placed on the use of the CPF Ordinary Account, as well as the amount of HDB housing loan taken. The money set aside can then be used to help home buyers meet their retirement needs. The generous housing grants received by eligible first-timer home buyers are also refunded into their own CPF account when they sell their flat.

Today, seniors can unlock the value of their flats to supplement their retirement income through a number of ways. First, seniors can consider renting out their flat or spare bedroom. They can opt to sell part of their lease back to HDB through the Lease Buyback Scheme. Seniors can also choose to right-size to a smaller home. We will do more for seniors who wish to right-size for their retirement.

Today, the Government provides a Silver Housing Bonus (SHB), of up to $30,000 in cash when seniors right-size to a 3-room or smaller flat. We will make three changes to the SHB, which will take effect from 1 December 2025. First, we will provide an additional $10,000 cash bonus to seniors who right-size to two-room flats or Community Care Apartments. This will bring the maximum bonus quantum from $30,000 currently to $40,000.

Second, we will extend the scheme to more seniors living in private residential properties, with annual values between $21,000 and $31,000. They will receive a bonus of up to $10,000 if they right-size to a 3-room HDB flat and up to $20,000 if they purchase a 2-room HDB flat or Community Care Apartment. With this enhancement, more than 15,000 more seniors can qualify for the SHB. Altogether, the Silver Housing Bonus scheme will cover more than three in four residential properties.

Third, we will adjust the cash top-up requirement so that seniors will qualify for the SHB as long as they commit to a net increase of up to $60,000 in their CPF Retirement Account after right-sizing, for their retirement payouts. This amount can come from their CPF housing refunds, which means that seniors may no longer need to make a cash top-up to qualify for the SHB. This will make it easier for seniors to benefit from the Silver Housing Bonus.

Mr Chairman, our third priority is to rejuvenate our towns. Some Members have asked about the Voluntary Early Redevelopment Scheme (VERS). VERS will be one of the ways to enable our towns to be revitalised to refresh the age profile of our public housing stock. When the concept of VERS was first announced back in 2018, we made it clear that VERS will not start until the 2030s, when our first flats are around the 70-year mark. There are no such flats today, nor any within this decade.

VERS is a complex and long-term undertaking and is one of a number of programmes that we will need to rejuvenate and reimagine our public housing estates. We need to carefully and sensitively stage the programme to reduce disamenities to residents living in newer parts of towns. At the same time, we need to ensure that there are enough homes for those who need to relocate.

We will share more details on the mechanics, processes and packages for VERS in due course and seek views from Singaporeans in the process. Meanwhile, we will do a second round of Home Improvement Programme (HIP) upgrading for flats from around the 60- to 70-year mark.

The HIP is today our flagship programme for tackling common maintenance issues faced in our older estates. Under the HIP essential improvements, like repairs to spalling concrete, are fully funded by the Government. Ms Joan Pereira had asked about this.

Looking ahead, we are working with industry partners and research institutes to develop better ways to address maintenance issues in our old estates. As our homes get older, issues, such as spalling concrete and external wall seepage, can be destructive to residents' daily lives.

First, we want to make repairs more durable. For example, HDB introduced the corrosion resistant repair (CRR) method last year. CRR helps to reduce the recurrence of spalling concrete.

Second, we want to improve diagnosis methods, so that we can more accurately pinpoint the root cause of the issue. One example is external wall water seepage. In complex cases, it can be difficult to identify exactly the source of seepage and the extent of repairs needed through visual checks alone.

HDB has started trialling the use of better scanning technology. Similar to an x-ray machine, it allows us to see beneath the surface, to try to trace the root cause of the seepage. If successful, residents can look forward to faster and more accurate diagnosis and swifter repair works. We will trial this technology starting with some 70 flats. Then, we will see if this technology can be scaled up for widespread use.

Third, we will develop early detection technology, such as predictive data analytics. This allows HDB to put in preventative measures and develop more targeted programmes.

We will push on with research and development (R&D) over the next few years. We plan to invest around $10 million in R&D to build HDB’s capabilities under these three pillars. HDB will progressively launch grant calls to develop ideas. We will also ensure that the technology we develop will be put to good use, by helping out Town Councils and private contractors to strengthen their capabilities.

Sir, as we develop and improve our city, we must make our built environment sector more productive and resilient.

Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked about our plans to accelerate sector transformation. To better support developers in their transformation efforts, we will revise the Additional Buyer’s Stamp Duty (ABSD) regime for those who undertake complex projects. Currently, to ensure timely injection of housing supply, most housing developers are required to commence construction within two years, and complete construction and sell all units within five years. Failing which, the upfront remittable ABSD component will be clawed back.

We will therefore extend the ABSD remission timeline for housing developers undertaking these projects. This includes projects that: transform our urban environment at a large scale; optimise land through intensification or integration with other developments including major public infrastructure; rejuvenate older estates; or adopt new technologies to achieve higher productivity targets.

Through this, we want to encourage housing developers and their alliances or firms to undertake projects that will transform our built environment.

Additionally, to encourage early adoption of CORENET X for smaller projects, the Government will extend the qualifying period for the ABSD remission timeline extension for these projects until 31 December 2026. Details will be released in a statement later today.

We will also introduce the Built Environment Technology and Capability (BETC) Grant to support the sector in long-term building capabilities that extend beyond immediate project investments. We will set aside $100 million over five years. This will be used to enhance enterprise capabilities, adoption of advanced technologies and the building of firms’ manpower capabilities.

My colleague, Minister Indranee Rajah, will share more about our efforts to transform the built environment sector in her speech. Mr Chairman, if you allow, in Mandarin, please.

(In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] This year marks Singapore's 60th year of Independence. For 60 years, the Government has stayed true to its mission of providing homes for our people. This commitment has never changed and will not waver.

Today, some elderly parents worry whether their children will be able to afford and purchase homes. We want to assure these parents that we have implemented various measures to ensure their children can afford and acquire homes.

In January this year, we successfully completed all pandemic-delayed HDB projects, delivering over 75,000 HDB units. We have also reduced waiting times for new HDB projects. Last year, the waiting time for new flats was less than four years, similar to pre-pandemic levels. Overall, the application rates for first-timer families for BTO flats are lower than pre-pandemic levels.

Last year, we increased the Enhanced CPF Housing Grant to ensure low- and middle-income first-time homebuyers can afford HDB flats. These families can receive up to $120,000 in grants when purchasing BTO flats. Last year's data also shows that most first-time homebuyers can use their CPF to pay their monthly instalments, with only minimal cash outlay required and some not needing to use any cash at all.

Although the situation has stabilised, the Government will continue to launch many HDB flats for Singaporeans to apply for.

In the next three years, we will launch over 50,000 HDB units. This is equivalent to one Ang Mo Kio town. This means that between 2021 and 2025, we will launch over 100,000 units, exceeding our previous target.

This year, we will also launch 3,800 HDB units with shorter waiting times of two-plus years. These shorter waiting time flats make up one-fifth of total supply. We will also launch another round of Sale of Balance Flats later this year.

Many are familiar with the Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme and have received Government subsidies to install elderly-friendly features, like grab bars and ramps, in their homes. We will extend the EASE programme to elderly households living in private properties to make their home environment more accessible and safer. The programme will begin early next year for a period of three years, with details to be announced later.

We will continue to address common maintenance issues in older HDB flats through the Home Improvement Programme, such as spalling concrete and external wall seepage, while continuing to develop more inspection technologies and repair methods.

For retired seniors who wish to monetise their flats to supplement their living expenses, we will provide more assistance. We will enhance the Silver Housing Bonus scheme to benefit more seniors. From 1 December 2025, seniors who right-size to 2-room Flexi flats or Community Care Apartments will receive an additional $10,000 bonus. This means the maximum bonus they can receive will increase from the current $30,000 to $40,000.

Currently, elderly homeowners need to use cash proceeds from their flat sale to top up their CPF Retirement Account to receive the bonus. We will adjust this rule. Homeowners can use the CPF refund from their flat sale to top-up their CPF Retirement Account. This way, seniors may no longer need to use cash to be eligible for the Silver Housing Bonus.

Additionally, we will expand the scheme. Currently, the Silver Housing Bonus is only available to private property owners with Annual Value below $21,000. We will extend the scheme to private property owners with Annual Value below $31,000, allowing them to benefit as well.

Let me summarise.

Our pioneers' foresight laid a strong foundation that allows us to enjoy high-quality living today; our homeownership rate is among the highest globally. We will carry on with this mission.

This is our promise to Singaporeans: whether it is you, your children or grandchildren, everyone will be able to have a safe haven, living and pursuing their dreams in a warm and harmonious environment.

(In English): Mr Chairman, let me conclude. At MND, we have had the privilege to work with many talented architects, planners, builders, dedicated colleagues, industry partners, conservationists, NGOs, nature groups, and so on. They have contributed to making Singapore a distinctive global city and an enduring home for Singaporeans.

Five years ago, we plunged into crisis mode. COVID-19 had long-tail effects, particularly for construction, but we have caught up and we have sought to address as many pain points as possible. We have completed all COVID-19 delayed flats. We are on track to launch more than 130,000 flats over seven years from 2021 to 2027. We have shortened BTO waiting times this year to the pre-COVID-19 norm. BTO application rates are now lower than during pre-COVID-19 levels. We opened up access to singles and will be restoring some of the access for second-timer families. On the HDB resale market, we implemented cooling measures and ramped up the supply of flats, which will stabilise the market over time.

At the same time, we have worked to prepare for the longer term. We introduced the New Flat Classification Framework during the pandemic. In doing so, we ensure social mixing in different parts of Singapore now and in the future. We are also planning bigger moves for areas such as Mount Pleasant, Greater Southern Waterfront, Paya Lebar Airbase and Turf City. This will create more space for Singaporeans, for their homes, dreams and aspirations.

As Singapore grows and develops, we have also been deliberate in ensuring that we conserve nature and protect our heritage. Given our very limited land and resources, this is not an easy feat. It requires thoughtful and disciplined long-term planning, building on the good work of our predecessors to dream bigger for the future, and to dream sustainably.

And we are not done yet. It is an ongoing journey and Singapore will always be a work in progress. And through it all, we will continue working with Singaporeans as custodians and stakeholders to shape our social compact and achieve our shared vision to create a home where Singaporeans can thrive, where no one is left behind. This is our enduring commitment for an endearing home. [Applause.]

Minister Indranee Rajah.

Mr Chairman, we have transformed our city and our island in the last 60 years, despite our limited land. This is enabled by our integrated planning framework, which allows agencies to coordinate land use and development needs. Agencies also closely engage citizens and industry, enabling active participation from stakeholders.

Effective implementation is equally critical. We will need to push the boundaries for productivity, sustainability and resiliency, to keep Singapore a liveable city for many generations to come.

Today, I will share how we are working closely with our stakeholders to revitalise our city for the future: first, we will continue to engage Singaporeans on our Draft Master Plan (DMP) 2025, even as we prepare for the mid-year launch of the DMP2025; second, we will transform the built environment sector to strengthen our productivity and sustainability; and third, we will continue to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of our city.

The Master Plan is a statutory plan that translates longer-term land use strategies from the Long-Term Plan into detailed plans and policies to guide physical development over the next 10 to 15 years. It is instrumental to shaping our city’s future, by balancing economic, social and environmental considerations.

Since the DMP2025 public engagement was launched in October 2023, the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) has engaged over 175,000 people on its key themes, which are: one, shaping a happy, healthy city; two, enabling sustainable growth; three, stewarding nature and heritage, and four, strengthening urban resilience. These engagements have generated greater awareness and appreciation amongst Singaporeans of the complexities and challenges of land use planning in Singapore, which require balancing housing, jobs, green spaces, infrastructure and heritage, all within our limited land and sea space. Given the DMP’s importance, we encourage all Singaporeans to participate in the ongoing engagements.

We have ambitious plans for coastal protection against the impacts of climate change. These include the “Long Island” currently being studied as part of DMP2025. "Long Island" is a good example of how we use imagination and innovation to overcome our land constraints and address multiple challenges with an integrated solution.

First, "Long Island" will protect against rising sea levels; second, it will mitigate floods for the low-lying East Coast; third, it will increase our water supply resilience with the creation of a new freshwater reservoir; and finally, it provides optionality for growth, through the creation of new spaces for housing, jobs and recreation, for future generations of Singaporeans.

Given its scale and complexity, we need to start our preparations for "Long Island" as soon as possible. We have initiated technical studies, including environmental studies, while simultaneously engaging stakeholders and members of the public to gather ideas and suggestions.

Beyond infrastructure, we want to create spaces where we can feel connected to one another and the environment. This involves preserving our built heritage so that we have a physical anchor to our past and memories.

Mr Keith Chua has asked how the Government will support heritage businesses. MND and the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) have set up a Task Force on Heritage Businesses, Traditional Activities and Cultural Life. Led by Minister of State Faishal Ibrahim and Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and the Ministry of Trade and Industry Low Yen Ling, the task force aims to strengthen support for heritage businesses and traditional activities so that our built heritage areas retain their character and “soul”. The Minister for Culture, Community and Youth or Senior Minister of State Low Yen Ling will share more about this task force at MCCY’s Committee of Supply (COS) debate.

Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked how public feedback, especially on high-rise developments in built-up residential areas, is incorporated into our plans, such as those at Amber Road. In land-scarce Singapore, we have to optimise our limited land resources to meet a wide range of diverse needs, including housing, transportation and community spaces. This is especially important for work and residential areas nearer to MRT stations, including the Amber Road area near the newly completed Tanjong Katong TEL station, which can allow more residents to enjoy the convenience of living near transport nodes and amenities. The Government will study the feedback raised, such as on density and traffic, and consider mitigating measures where feasible. With careful planning and thoughtful design, we will continue to safeguard a quality living environment for all Singaporeans, while balancing our diverse land use needs.

Mr Louis Chua asked how the Government can enhance amenities and infrastructure to enhance liveability and inclusiveness in Sengkang. These will be factored into and featured at the upcoming DMP2025 exhibition, which is the culmination of our public engagements, from June 2025 onwards. The DMP2025 exhibition will display our planning vision, strategies and development plans for the next 10 to 15 years and be brought to various locations island-wide. We encourage everyone to visit the DMP2025 exhibition.

Next, I move to our plans to build a strong and dynamic built environment (BE) sector. The last five years were not easy for the BE sector. The sector was severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. To help the sector, the Government provided a slew of support, including significant financial assistance through the $1.36 billion Construction Package; legal support for firms unable to meet their contractual obligations due to the pandemic; and support for contractors to bring in foreign workers, as they were faced with manpower shortages when we restarted construction works. This experience has strengthened our resolve to transform the BE sector, which has been so pivotal to Singapore’s development.

Mr Lim Biow Chuan has asked for an update on the progress of the BE Industry Transformation Map (ITM) efforts. We are on track to hit our target of 70% by 2025 for both the adoption of Integrated Digital Delivery (IDD), which enables greater collaboration between stakeholders, and Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA), which shifts construction offsite to safer and more productive settings before onsite assembly.

With advancements in science and technology, the BE sector is moving from bricks and mortar to smart technology, encompassing AI-assisted tools, automation and digital collaboration across the construction lifecycle, from planning and design, to construction and inspection. CORENET X, a one-stop digital platform that streamlines regulatory approvals, allows architects and engineers to ensure regulatory compliance more easily and focus on innovation.

In the construction phase, firms are also deploying technological solutions to improve worker safety. For example, Zheng Keng Engineering and Construction has incorporated AI into their onsite safety surveillance system, so site managers can intervene immediately during risky situations.

BCA has also recently implemented virtual Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) inspections through virtual scans, as an alternative inspection option to conventional, physical site inspections. We are working with agencies to expand these efforts.

As part of our continued efforts to drive transformation under the BE ITM, the Government will introduce a new Built Environment Technology and Capability (BETC) Grant to further support the development of long-term capabilities of all firms in the sector. BE firms can receive up to 70% funding support to develop enterprise capabilities, technology adoption and manpower capabilities. One hundred million dollars will be set aside over a five-year period for the grant, which will accept applications from 1 April. I strongly encourage firms to approach BCA for more information and to apply.

The Government will also continue to encourage our local construction industry to adopt productive technologies. MOF has announced the Land Intensification Allowance (LIA) scheme will be extended until the end of 2030, which allows companies investing in Integrated Construction and Prefabrication Hubs (ICPHs), to receive tax allowance on their capital investment. We are reviewing the types of construction facilities supported by the LIA and will share more details when ready.

However, transformation goes beyond technology. At the heart of any successful sector are the people, in this case, the built environment professionals – the architects, engineers, quantity surveyors and more. This is why we have set up the Taskforce for Architectural and Engineering Consultants in September 2024, co-led by myself and Mr Chaly Mah, Chairman of Surbana Jurong Group.

Over the last few months, the task force has been engaging a wide range for stakeholders, including young professionals and firms in the BE sector. We were heartened to learn that young BE professionals gain immense satisfaction from contributing to Singapore’s built environment. They take pride in designing and constructing buildings that improve the lives of future generations – a hospital that cares for the sick, a school that nurtures the next generation, or a landmark that puts Singapore on the world map.

However, professionals have also expressed concerns on the sector’s pay, career development opportunities and HR support. We have also heard that some firms put in lowly-priced tender bids at the expense of quality and business sustainability.

Let me provide an update on the task force’s efforts and preliminary recommendations, in response to Mr Henry Quek and Mr Lim Biow Chuan’s questions. First, the task force is looking at how we can strengthen and support the BE consultancy trade associations and chambers (TACs), such as the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) and the Association of Consulting Engineers Singapore (ACES), to play a greater role in uplifting the sector.

The TACs are critical if we are to succeed. The task force will study how to help our TACs build up their capabilities, including areas, such as sector branding, catalysing members’ adoption of technology and capability building. We will share more details when ready.

Second, the task force aims to make the BE sector a career of choice for talented Singaporeans passionate about shaping Singapore’s physical development. We have also heard our youths’ concerns on the sector’s pay and appeal. In response, the task force is working with the firms, TACs, Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs) and professional boards to enhance internship experiences and review the starting salaries for fresh graduates. Several progressive firms, such as Arup Singapore, Beca, DP Architects and ID Architects, have already put these in place and we encourage more firms to do so.

To Miss Rachel Ong’s question, our agencies actively facilitate opportunities for our local architects to participate in public sector projects and showcase their capabilities, through design competitions and tenders. Many local architectural firms have put forth innovative design proposals for unique projects of varying scales and types, ranging from landmark developments, such as the Pinnacle@Duxton, new civic and public spaces, like Geylang Serai Cultural Belt, to signature buildings, such as the upcoming NS Square.

We have also heard in-service professionals requesting more career development opportunities and improved HR support. I am pleased to announce a new collaboration amongst SIA, ACES and the Institute for HR Professionals (IHRP) to roll out HR transformation support to help firms enhance career development support.

Third, the task force has heard that some firms tended to put in lowly-priced tender bids at the expense of quality and business sustainability. To address this, the Government has been progressively enhancing our tender evaluation approaches to deter fee-diving and strengthen the quality-based procurement criteria.

The proportion of tenders awarded to low outlier bids has declined significantly from 2017 to 2024, with the majority of public sector tenders awarded to the top-quality bids. However, we can and will do more.

The Government will further expand our tender evaluation approach to disadvantage low outlier bids for a wider range of public sector projects. We will also review our procurement contracts to ensure a fairer balance of risks between service buyers and BE consultants. Beyond public sector projects, we strongly encourage the private sector service buyers to enhance your procurement practices. This will give the industry greater assurance to compete on quality, offer differentiated value propositions, and invest in human capital, technologies and innovation.

Fourth, we want our BE consultants to harness the ongoing technological revolution to grow their capabilities, profits and careers. For example, SAA Architects, a Singapore home-grown firm, has been able to speed up its early design processes by leveraging GenAI-powered automation tools. This lets them focus on higher value work, such as analysis and study of their designs.

Harnessing technologies can also improve BE consultants’ career prospects. When Mr Muhammad Khalil started his career as a draftsman in 2025, manual drawing was still prevalent. [Please refer to the clarification later in the debate.] Over the years, Mr Khalil upskilled to use technologies, such as building information models (BIM) and AI tools, which opened up new career opportunities. Today, Mr Khalil is a Senior Vice President at Boustead Projects, where he partners developers, builders and fellow consultants to leverage digital technologies to deliver building projects more efficiently.

To guide more firms and BE professionals to embark on their transformation journeys, I am pleased to announce that BCA will put together a one-stop compilation of the programmes and initiatives that support firms to transform their capabilities and upskill their employees. I encourage firms to tap on these resources to accelerate their transformation journeys.

The task force will continue working on these highlighted areas. Our efforts will also address some of the feedback that businesses have provided to the Inter-Ministerial Committee for Pro-Enterprise Rules Review, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong. We welcome further inputs ahead of our finalised recommendations in the second half of 2025.

As we revitalise and build our city, we must ensure its inclusiveness to different segments of our society. As such, we had convened a Code Review Committee, to review the Code on Accessibility in the Built Environment.

The Code review seeks to address the current gaps and anticipate the future needs of persons with disabilities (PwDs), the elderly and young families with children.

For example, enhancements to lactation room standards to better support the needs of breastfeeding mothers have been proposed. The Code Review Committee has recommended to: first, lower the GFA threshold for the provision of lactation rooms; and second, expand the list of mandatory features that lactation rooms are to be equipped with, such as seats and side tables. In addition, we will continue to provide funding support through the Accessibility Fund, to encourage owners of existing older buildings to upgrade their premises with inclusive features.

We thank the public for your views during our consultation. The Code will be finalised and released in the second quarter of 2025 and the industry will be given sufficient lead time before the Code takes effect.

Mr Ong Hua Han asked whether the Government would consider extending the benefits of HDB’s Enhancement for Active Seniors (EASE) programme to PwDs.

While EASE is designed to meet the needs of seniors, we understand that EASE may also be helpful for other HDB residents with mobility challenges. HDB assesses applications from those who do not meet the eligibility criteria on a case-by-case basis. Social agencies and healthcare professionals may advise PwDs staying in HDB flats to approach HDB for assistance if they are looking for in-home fittings.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) and SG Enable also have a suite of existing initiatives to support PwDs to live independently in the community.

Mr Chairman, in conclusion, our future is shaped by the collective efforts of every segment of society. I urge each of you to actively participate in the upcoming Draft Master Plan Exhibition and our other initiatives that will contribute to shaping Singapore’s urban landscape, as part of our continuous efforts to revitalise and enhance our home.

Senior Minister of State Sim Ann.

Mr Chairman, I thank Members for their cuts.

I will speak on four areas: first, maintaining affordable cooked food options in the neighbourhood; second, making physical enhancements to our neighbourhoods to take care of the needs of more users; third, improving the delivery of municipal services; and lastly, resolving complex community challenges.

Let me first update on our efforts to ensure affordable cooked food options in our estates.

Mr Chong Kee Hiong and Mr Henry Kwek will be pleased to hear that our Budget Meal initiative has made good progress since it was announced in March 2023. As of January 2025, more than 60% of 397 HDB rental coffeeshops and about 30% of 403 privately-owned HDB coffeeshops now offer budget meals.

This means budget meals can now be found at many more heartland locations throughout the island. If we were to draw a radius of 400 metres or about five to 10 minutes walking distance around every coffeeshop offering budget meals, more than 80% of HDB flats would be covered.

Credit goes to the collective efforts of the Community Development Councils, HDB and Enterprise Singapore for achieving this coverage. In particular, the agencies jointly encouraged nine coffeeshop chain operators to come onboard the Community Budget Meal initiative in July 2024.

All these stalls offering budget meals can be found on the BudgetMealGoWhere portal, a collaboration between HDB and GovTech, that allows users to search for the nearest coffeeshop with budget meal options. Since its launch, the BudgetMealGoWhere portal has been well-received, and has recorded more than 450,000 unique visitors.

To reach out to more people, including seniors who may not be active online, MND and HDB have publicised the budget meal initiative via mainstream media, including newspapers and radio channels, and will continue to explore ways to raise awareness on the availability of budget meals in HDB estates.

We will continue with our plans to make budget meals available at even more locations. We are on track to onboard all HDB rental coffee shops to provide budget meals by 2026. Since December 2023, new buyers of privately-owned HDB coffee shops will need to offer budget meals once they have taken over the coffee shop. Eight coffee shops now provide budget meals in line with this requirement.