Hansard, Monday, 22 September 2025

11.30 am Order. Oaths and Affirmations of Allegiance.

11.30 am The two hon Members who are taking their Oath or Affirmation of Allegiance today will proceed to the Table to do so when their names are called.

11.30 am [(proc text) The following Members took and subscribed the Oath of Allegiance, or made Affirmation of Allegiance, in the order below: (proc text)]

11.30 am [(proc text) Mr Eric Chua (Queenstown) (proc text)]

11.30 am [(proc text) Ms Sylvia Lim (Aljunied) (proc text)]

11.33 am Order. Election of Deputy Speakers.

11.33 am Mr Speaker, I propose that Mr Christopher de Souza and Mr Xie Yao Quan be elected as Deputy Speakers of this Parliament.

11.33 am I am confident that Mr de Souza and Mr Xie will bring to their roles a strong sense of duty and sound judgement. Both are deeply committed to good governance and impartiality to promote constructive, respectful debate across party lines in this House.

11.33 am Mr Speaker, I support the proposal.

11.33 am Are there further proposals from hon Members?

11.33 am There being no further proposal, I now declare that proposals for the Election of Deputy Speakers are closed.

11.33 am And I congratulate the new Deputy Speakers, Mr Christopher de Souza and Mr Xie Yao Quan, as my two new Deputy Speakers. [Applause.] I look forward to you supporting me in the discharge of my duties.

11.38 am Hon Members, I wish to inform the House that our Clerk of Parliament, Ms Ng Sheau Jiuan, will retire on 23 September 2025, that is, tomorrow. This is after 33 years of distinguished service.

11.38 am Ms Ng began her parliamentary career in 1992 and became our sixth – and first woman – Clerk of Parliament in 2005.

11.38 am I first met her when I entered the House in 2006. From my early days as a new Member of Parliament, through my time as Deputy Speaker and now as Speaker, her patient guidance and deep knowledge of parliamentary procedures have been invaluable.

11.38 am Renowned for her mastery of the Standing Orders, Ms Ng has served as the principal adviser to Speakers and Members with impartiality and meticulous care. She strengthened the work of various Committees, steered the House through the challenges of the pandemic and led the Secretariat through three decades of technological change, ensuring Parliament kept pace with the times. When in doubt about procedure, we and I do not turn to Mr Google. We all turn to Ms Ng.

11.38 am As head of the Secretariat, her leadership has kept Parliament running seamlessly and enhanced Singapore’s profile through many international and regional conferences and meetings. Her legacy of excellence and innovation will endure.

11.38 am I am also pleased to announce that Mr Siow Peng Han, our current Deputy Clerk since 2008, will succeed as Clerk of Parliament tomorrow, on 23 September 2025. I extend, on behalf of all Members, our heartiest congratulations to Mr Siow on his appointment.

11.38 am Finally, on behalf of all Members and Speakers past and present, I convey our deepest gratitude to Ms Ng for her exemplary service and wish her every happiness in the next chapter of her life. Sheau Jiuan, we will miss your wise counsel and unwavering dedication. Thank you. [Applause.]

11.38 am Mr Speaker, please allow me, on behalf of Members, to pay tribute to our Clerk of Parliament, Ms Ng Sheau Jiuan. Ms Ng joined the Parliamentary Service as an Assistant Clerk in 1992 and was appointed Clerk of Parliament in 2005.

11.38 am As Clerk, she has seen us through more than two decades and six terms of Parliament, and worked with five Speakers and Leaders of the House. Through it all, she has been a constant and reliable presence in this House, whom Members have been able to turn to for guidance on Parliamentary procedure.

11.38 am By nature, Ms Ng is unassuming. But that belies her great expertise, knowledge and capability. In the last 20 years, she has played a crucial role in ensuring that every Parliament Sitting runs smoothly.

11.38 am To the Chamber and to the public, it appears as though this is effortless. But the reality is that it takes an enormous amount of the work behind the scenes to ensure that every Sitting runs smoothly, and this is due in very large part to the work of the Clerks, who have been ably overseen and guided by Ms Ng. Thanks to her tireless dedication, our Parliamentary proceedings run like clockwork, even when things hit a fever pitch during the frenzy of the Committee of Supply debates each year. This task has become even more challenging in recent years, with a higher number of Parliamentary Questions, Motions and other Parliamentary Business. Through it all, she has been the invisible hand behind the smooth proceedings that this House has enjoyed, notwithstanding the increasing workload and the massive amount of coordination required.

11.38 am As Clerk of Parliament, Ms Ng has also been our foremost in-house expert on Parliamentary procedure and the Standing Orders. Her command of Parliamentary procedure is built on not only her wealth of experience but her legal training prior to joining the Parliamentary Service. And here, on a more personal note, I should mention that Ms Ng and I were classmates in law school, from the graduating cohort of 1986. I do not think that at that time, we both envisaged that we would end up in the same Chamber, but it has been a pleasure to work with her here. In law school, she was the same – friendly, diligent and always a pleasure to work with.

11.38 am Ms Ng has also overseen key transformations of our Parliament over the last two decades. These include the livestreaming of Parliamentary proceedings, efforts to simplify the language used in Parliament and increased public outreach to demystify Parliament's work. What these initiatives have in common is Ms Ng's commitment to making Parliamentary proceedings more accessible to the public. She also personally oversaw the implementation of the improvements in the Members' Room, including the improved menu. So, Members know whom you have to thank for that.

11.38 am Ms Ng has carried the heavy responsibilities of her office with a steady hand, a faithful heart and an enduring devotion to this House. On behalf of all Members, thank you Sheau Jiuan, for your 33 years of distinguished service. We wish you a fulfilling and thoroughly well-deserved retirement.

11.38 am On behalf of all Members, I also wish to extend our warmest congratulations to Mr Siow Peng Han on his appointment as the new Clerk of Parliament, with effect from tomorrow. Mr Siow is no stranger to us, having served as Deputy Clerk since 2008. I have no doubt that we are in good hands with Mr Siow as Clerk for the 15th Parliament. [Applause.]

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood 1 Mr Vikram Nair asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs with countries like the UK, France and Australia announcing plans to recognise Palestinian statehood at the UN General Assembly in September, whether Singapore is also reconsidering its position on the issue.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood 2 Mr Christopher de Souza asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) what additional humanitarian assistance is Singapore providing or considering to address the critical food security situation affecting children in the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict; and (b) what measures are Singapore or Singapore-based organisations supporting at the international level to facilitate the safe and unimpeded delivery of food and medical supplies to children and civilians in need.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood 3 Dr Charlene Chen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) how has Singapore conveyed its concerns regarding the humanitarian crisis in Gaza to the Israeli government; (b) what specific messages have been raised regarding the protection of civilians and the continuation of essential services, such as water and electricity; and (c) what is Israel's response to Singapore’s views.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood 4 Mr Kwek Hian Chuan Henry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) whether there is an update on Singapore’s (i) diplomatic efforts in relation to the current crisis in Gaza and (ii) humanitarian assistance rendered and obstacles faced in its delivery; (b) what is the Government’s assessment of the prospects for a ceasefire; and (c) whether Singapore will consider increasing funds set aside for technical assistance for rebuilding once stability is achieved.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood 5 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs how is Singapore working with the international community to ensure Israel abides by international law as its war against Hamas intensifies, impacting other countries in the Middle East like the recent attack in Qatar on 9 September 2025.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood 6 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs (a) whether the Government will consider convening an inter-ministry taskforce or involving Singaporeans to consolidate relief, rebuilding, and restructuring efforts for Gaza in a strategic manner; and (b) what other initiatives can be piloted by the Government to safeguard harmony and cohesion amongst different communities in Singapore, against the backdrop of the Gaza conflict.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood Mr Speaker, I will be making a Ministerial Statement later on the situation in the Middle East. I seek your approval to answer all 13 Parliamentary Questions which have been filed on the same subject. These would be Question Nos 1 to 6 for oral answer and Question Nos 26 to 32 for written answer.

Singapore's Support in Humanitarian Aid for Critical Food Security Situation in Gaza Conflict and Review on Stance on Palestinian Statehood I give my consent.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping 7 Mr Ang Wei Neng asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) what prompted the recent inter-ministerial efforts to ban vaping; (b) how many individuals have been caught for vaping or possession offences from (i) January to June 2025 and (ii) July to August 2025; and (c) what are the Ministry's plans for the control of etomidate after its Class C classification expires on 28 February 2026.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping 8 Miss Rachel Ong asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) how many vaping cases have been reported via (i) hotline and (ii) webform in 2025; (b) how many of such cases led to the identification of offenders; (c) how many of these are students; and (d) whether vape use has declined since the hotline and webform were introduced.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping 9 Miss Rachel Ong asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health whether the Ministry can provide an update on the enforcement actions taken against the illegal sales of Kpods to Singapore residents through various online messaging platforms.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping 10 Dr Wan Rizal asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health what additional preventive and rehabilitative measures will be introduced to deter youth vaping and to support those already affected.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping 11 Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) how many persons have been arrested and charged with vape-related offences in the past three months; and (b) what percentage of such persons are below 25 years old; and (c) what are the recent measures by the authorities to stop the sale of e-vaporisers and components on encrypted messaging platforms.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to answer Question Nos 7 to 11 together? My response will also address written Parliamentary Questions (PQs), Question Nos 15 to 18 in today’s Order Paper, and similar questions raised by Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim1, Ms Poh Li San, Mr Sharael Taha, Dr Hamid Razak and Mr David Hoe2, scheduled for later Sittings. I would invite Members to seek clarifications, if need be. If the question has been addressed, it may not be necessary for Members to proceed with the questions for future Sittings.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Please proceed.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping E-vaporisers, which were primarily nicotine delivery devices, were banned in Singapore ever since it was introduced. In the first eight months of this year, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) detected almost 10,000 cases of possession or use and 38 cases of supply of e-vaporisers. Amongst users, more than half are under 25 years old.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping However, e-vaporisers now carry more dangerous substances, like etomidate, and controlled drugs. This was in fact one of the key considerations when we banned the supply and use of e-vaporisers years ago, and our fears have unfortunately come true. This year, HSA detected 70 cases of possession or use of etomidate e-vaporisers.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping With e-vaporisers, the landscape of substance abuse has changed. We launched a whole-of-Government response, which we announced on 28 August 2025. The measures include the following.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping First, curbing upstream import and supply. Over 2,800 online advertisements, including those found on messaging platforms, were removed between January and August this year. Platforms have a legal responsibility to detect and remove advertisements. Those with inadequate processes will face penalties, including fines and imprisonment, under the Tobacco (Control of Advertisements and Sale) Act.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Second, enhance border enforcement. The HSA, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA), Central Narcotics Bureau (CNB) and Singapore Police Force (SPF) work closely to enforce against smuggling and syndicated activities at our borders. They are also sharing information with their foreign counterparts. Within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) today, Singapore, Brunei, Thailand, Laos and Cambodia have banned vaping. We are pleased to learn that Malaysia is making plans to do so too. With more regional countries banning e-vaporisers, we can be more effective in curbing this harmful and addictive habit.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Third, listing of etomidate as a Class C Controlled Drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act, or MDA. This has sent a clear and strong public message, by elevating the penalties against etomidate-related offences. Together with this, we now have over 10,000 officers empowered to enforce against e-vaporiser-related offences. Agencies have been conducting joint raids at night spots and operations at Institutes of Higher Learning (IHLs).

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Public vigilance continues to be crucial in enabling offences to be detected. HSA received over 4,600 hotline reports between January and August, and over 1,400 reports through the new online form launched on 21 July. The online form requires Singpass login to prevent spam and ensure report integrity, especially if the reporting member of public wants to upload photos of offenders or locations of offence. For those without Singpass, such as those under 15 years old, they can use the telephone hotline. Because of our strong stance against substance abuse, it is unlikely that production of etomidate e-vaporisers will take root in Singapore.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping As for the question of phasing out etomidate in medical settings, etomidate remains a useful anaesthetic agent, particularly in emergencies for intubation purposes and we have no plans to phase it out. Its handling has been well-controlled, previously under the Poisons Act and now under the MDA.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I mentioned earlier that e-vaporisers have changed the landscape of substance abuse. There are more young people involved, out of curiosity, or succumbing to peer pressure. We want to help this group and have provided opportunities for them to come forward and seek help early. We have implemented the following.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping First, the "Bin The Vape" initiative. About 6,000 e-vaporisers and components were collected between July and August. These devices have been properly disposed of; no testing was done of their contents because that will take up a lot of our testing resources. "Bin the Vape" was meant to be a time-limited initiative. We have since reduced the number of bins and located them in specific locations, such as border checkpoints and where rehabilitation programmes are provided.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Second, we introduced or stepped up rehabilitation programmes, namely the QuitVape and I Quit programmes, to support users to kick the habit. From 1 September to 14 September, 74 persons have signed up for these programmes. Those who voluntarily surrender e-vaporisers, including etomidate e-vaporisers and seek help, will not be penalised for doing so. This arrangement has continued since 1 September 2025.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping But as for those who are caught, rehabilitation will be required for all etomidate e-vaporiser offenders and repeat e-vaporiser offenders. The rehabilitation programmes are run by the Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and social service agencies (SSAs), such as, WE CARE Community Services and the Singapore Anti-Narcotics Association (SANA) who have expertise in running cessation programmes. Schools and parents are closely involved in the rehabilitation process for youths, including counselling and supporting the youths.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping We also need to step up preventive education. We have launched a public anti-vaping campaign. Schools and IHLs are intensifying educational efforts through school curricula, assembly talks and orientation briefings. Students learn about the harms of vaping, recognise impulsive and addictive behaviours and pick up strategies for self-control, help-seeking and managing negative peer influences. The Ministry of Education (MOE) is also engaging parents, including through the Parents Gateway.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping While we have listed etomidate in the MDA, the Ministry of Health (MOH) is reviewing the longer-term legislation needed to adapt to this new landscape. The new legislation will provide legal powers to enforce against e-vaporisers of all kinds, provide for mandatory rehabilitation and supervision regimes, and set appropriate penalties for users and suppliers. We plan to enact the new legislation in the first quarter of 2026, to continue to support this whole-Of-Government approach to protect Singaporeans from the harmful effects caused by e-vaporisers.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Ang.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Thank you, Speaker, for allowing me to ask supplementary questions. In this House, I have asked many PQs about vaping since 2021. I have some supplementary questions. The first question is more on statistics. How many vaping equipment and vaping materials have been surrendered through the "bins" and through voluntary purposes since they started programme?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping And secondly, how many people have come voluntarily to HSA for help, because they have already surrendered their vaping equipment and need rehabilitation?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping And third question, is, moving on, which Ministry or department will continue the effort against vaping? I noted that the recent HSA's annual report, in the front page, report by the Chairman, there is no mention about vaping, as I mentioned the last round in my supplementary question previously.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Sir, as mentioned in my reply just now, 6,000 vapes and their components have been surrendered through the "Bin The Vape" programme. More have been surrendered earlier but we did not keep track of them.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping As for volunteers who gave up vapes since we announced the new policies, 74 have come forward, as I mentioned in my reply.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Which Ministry will coordinate between the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and MOH, we will work closely together to coordinate.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping The landscape has changed. It used to be either you smoke and vape, or you take drugs. Two separate sets of people.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping But now you have a vape device, it is a delivery device that contains the drugs. The front end is controlled by MOH, controlled substance is regulated by MHA.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping So, the landscape has changed. The two Ministries have to work closely together and coordinate this.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Melvin Yong.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Thank you, Mr Speaker. I would like to ask the Minister, in his answer, he said, for vaping, there is a high number of youths caught for vaping related offences. According to news reports, these youths are enticed to vaping and peddling of vapes through social media channels. I would like to ask how well is our HSA resourced to counter such tactics employed by the vape trafficking syndicates?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I think the challenge is not one of resource, but through the Internet and messaging platforms, they proliferate very easily and they do not necessarily have a presence in Singapore for you to able to get hold of them and take them to task. So, it is a big cat and mouse game. We will continue to do so. We have shut down so many of them – I reported it in my reply – and working together with the Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA), as well as the tech platforms.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping But most importantly, the culture of avoiding substance abuse must take root in our society. What has been very comforting is that ever since we launched this new whole-of-Government approach to tackling etomidate vaping, the public has been very supportive. Schools, institutions, SSAs and even the youths amongst themselves are very supportive. So, we hope we continue to uphold this behaviour and this culture, and I think that is the best defence against substance abuse.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I am trying to see those who have asked PQs earlier, I will give priority. If there are not, I will go to the rest. Ms Poh Li San.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping In view of the tightened measures to eradicate the use of vapes in Singapore, this has also caused a shift to more underground activities. What are the Government's measures to target this group of sales of vapes, especially Kpods, in underground activities?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Never think that just because we are worried about underground activities, so therefore, legalise and regulate. That is what other countries have done when it comes to controlled drugs; and look where they are, and look where we are.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping So, I think we have always taken a tough stance against drugs. I do not know why I am answering this, but I think it is a correct approach to take. Things do go underground and MHA, with our tough laws, will take very tough actions against them.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping So, likewise for etomidate. Do not fall for harm reduction arguments, ban it, enforce it; if it goes underground, we will go after you.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Asst Prof Jamus Lim.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Thank you, Speaker. Much obliged. I understand that I did not file a PQ on this, but I am just wondering if the enhanced stance against vaping will now, in fact, empower the SPF and not just the HSA, to apprehend individuals reported to be using or distributing vapes?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I ask because the previous appeals I had written on behalf of residents to the SPF had been redirected. The concern however, in doing so, is two-fold. The presence of HSA officers, presumably is not as ubiquitous as that of the Police and HSA may not potentially have sufficient resources to tackle the surge in cases. This is something that Member Melvin Yong had also raised previously.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Perhaps it is not within your Ministry, Sir, but I am wondering if we could have your thoughts on that.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping We coordinate all these. In fact, more than the SPF. Today, SPF, HSA, ICA, CNB, the National Environment Agency, Land Transport Authority, MOE, Gambling Regulatory Authority, all the officers are empowered now to take actions against etomidate related offences.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping As the Member mentioned, there were instances in the past, because etomidate fell between the legal cracks, which is why there was a point that the SPF did not feel they were empowered to enforce; yet, it falls under HSA. But HSA finds that our penalties, if we catch someone possessing or using etomidate, the penalties are not stringent enough, which is why we took the step of listing etomidate as a Class C drug in MDA. So, we closed the loophole. But this is temporary. As I mentioned, early next year, we want to pass new legislation to make the necessary provision to enforce against this.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Christopher de Souza.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I thank the Minister for his clear response. I just like to re-introduce the subutex experience all those years ago.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I remember we had to fill the gap with subutex and it took some time to fill the gap for subutex before we could classify it as an illegal drug and then take enforcement action.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I just see a little bit of similarity here with etomidate. I am concerned at the length of time it took HSA to classify this as a Class C drug.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I do not know the ins and outs of HSA. There could be a number of reasons why the experiments had to take so long or the policy considerations. I would like to know whether we had learnt from the subutex situation and whether or not we could have been quicker in reducing, the amount of time it took to classify etomidate as a Class C. Because only then, can you come in and do all the enforcement.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping The classification of etomidate under MDA is done under MHA. But I take the Member's point. We have to act as fast as we can. The process does take some time when the new substance enters a community. You have to observe who is taking it, will it fizzle out or will it start to take root and grow. Ketamine, for example, did not take root.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping At the same time, we have to observe the clinical evidence. How harmful is it? How addictive is it? And how dependent does someone become? So, all these take a bit of time. But I take the Member's point. We have to act as quickly as we can.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Kenneth Tiong.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping There is a case in my division, where the child is hooked on Kpods and expelled from school. He refuses all contacts with authorities. His parents want to know what powers do the authorities have to enforce compulsory assessment and rehabilitation for these youths that refuse our help?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping The Member wrote to me about this case. This is one of those cases that fell through the cracks during that transition period. Right now, with etomidate listed in MDA, we close the loophole. Next year, we will have new legislation.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Ms Hany Soh.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Thank you, Speaker. I have two supplementary questions. One is echoing from what Parliamentary colleague, Mr Christopher de Souza has said, I would like to ask whether, apart from the etomidate-laced vapes, has the Ministry detected the use of other unlawful or harmful substances as well, that may potentially be also classified?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping The other supplementary question is pertaining to MOE's recent announcements on introducing suspensions. In this regard, I would like to inquire whether we are exploring for these suspensions to be in-house, which means it is within the school, rather than external, as an effort to rehabilitate the students better. This is following from some of the feedback that we have gathered through Woodgrove's anti-vaping taskforce through which we have been engaging the schools.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping On the first question, I assume the Member is asking whether there are other substances that are delivered through e-vaporisers. We have seen them in other countries – cannabis, for example; in Australia, we saw fentanyl. So, we have to observe this carefully and, as Mr de Souza mentioned, be very vigilant, list them quickly, do not allow them to take root.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping As for the next question, about MOE, I think I will answer on behalf of MOE, their measures are over and above what the law has provided. If a student is caught using etomidate through e-vaporisers, he will be required to go through the rehabilitation programme, either at IMH or one of our SSA partners. On top of that, MOE will, through their own in-house school discipline system, impose other punishments, such as suspension.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Dennis Tan.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Minister, two supplementary questions. Would it be possible to include etomidate's precursors under the precursors control list? Secondly, how do we ensure that the medical alternatives for etomidate do not get abused by drug addicts as an easy substitute?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping For precursors, I assume you meant the derivatives of etomidate. They are all listed as part of the Class C drug under MDA, they have already been listed. But if we have missed out something, do let us know and we will include them.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping The second question, I think we just have to be tough on all forms of substance abuse so that one does not become the substitute of the other. This is an area where MHA will obviously know a lot better. But right now, as I have mentioned, e-vaporisers have changed the landscape. Now, you have got something very recreational, a delivery device – from delivering lychee-flavoured nicotine, to etomidate to cannabis. So, you have a range of stuff that can be delivered through this device. When someone is using a vape, you do not know what he or she is consuming.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Because of that, MHA and MOH will have to work closely together, so that we cover all bases. So, whatever substance abuse is out there, we take firm action against them, so that one does not become a substitute for the other.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Dr Hamid Razak.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping I would like to ask the Minister if Singapore has raised the issue of e-vapour product control in ASEAN forums and what have the responses from our neighbours been and whether any collaborations have emerged thus far?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping We have had some informal consultations and we hope ASEAN, at some point, can take a concerted stance. This is something that we want to work towards. In the meantime, we do see more and more ASEAN countries banning vapes, Malaysia being the latest to attempt to do so, and we will share our information and our experiences with them. Hopefully, at some point, we will have a stronger ASEAN common stance.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Mr Victor Lye.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping Minister, to the extent that smoking is precursor to vaping and with the clampdown on vaping, does the Ministry intend to take a tighter stance against smoking, especially among our young?

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping The good thing is that smoking prevalence has been dropping in Singapore continuously. The latest survey showed that prevalence among adults – "adults" meaning aged 15 and above – is 8.8%. It is a historical low and one of the lowest in the world. [Please refer to "Clarification by Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health", Official Report, 22 September 2025, Vol 96, Issue 2, Correction By Written Statement section.]

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping We will continue to encourage people not to smoke. And Singaporeans are responding to it. We should also remember that tobacco has been around for 200 years. When it first started, people did not know the harm that it can cause. Today, we know but it has taken root and become part of society's behaviour. But we will have to continue to work on reducing the prevalence of smoking.

Number of Vape-related Arrests Made, and Update on Enforcement, Preventive and Rehabilitative Measures for Tackling Vaping We have many PQs in this list, so I am going to give this one last supplementary question to Dr Wan Rizal.