Hansard, Friday, 6 March 2026

1 Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Acting Minister for Transport (a) what is the median and maximum programmed wait time for pedestrians at signalised junctions; (b) whether pedestrians are currently prioritised in traffic signal timing logic and, if not, whether the Land Transport Authority will consider prioritising them; and (c) whether the Ministry will reduce maximum wait times to under 60 seconds.

Speaker, the median and maximum waiting time for pedestrians at signalised junctions are 120 seconds and 140 seconds respectively.

Wait times for pedestrians depend on the nature of road, junction size and configuration, as well as prevailing traffic volume. For example, waiting times at signalised junctions of Friendly Streets, which we are expanding to every town by 2030, are under 60 seconds.

Mr Giam.

I thank the Minister of State for the reply. Sir, the Land Transport Authority's (LTA's) 2018 Transport Impact Assessment guidelines reflect a shift to prioritise mass transport and active mobility, which includes walking over private transport modes. Can the Minister of State give some examples of how this translates into shorter pedestrian wait times and more pedestrian priority, other than the Friendly Streets initiative, which only covers a few intersections in a few towns? Does the Government intend to give greater priority to pedestrians for all intersections, including the older ones?

And secondly, the Minister of State said that the maximum time is 140 seconds? That is almost two and a half minutes. Does the Minister of State agreed that a wait time of almost two and a half minutes in Singapore's hot and humid climate, can be a bit too long and can the maximum time be reduced further, as much as to 60 seconds?

And thirdly, do most signalised intersections currently use a fixed time signal, or do they change according to demand?

And the last question is very fast one: does pressing the green man button, does that shorten the wait time, or does that just signal that the pedestrian is waiting at the junction?

Sir, the configuration for signal timing needs to strike a balance among all the users of the junction, whether vehicles on the roads or pedestrians. And while I appreciate that the Member has concern for people waiting longer at the traffic junction, waiting for the green man, we also have to take account for traffic. Traffic is not just private vehicles. It also includes public buses, which need to stick to a schedule to make sure they bring commuters to work on time. So, we do need to look at the interest of all parties, which will be affected by changes in the traffic light timings.

Having said that, we do take a look at the junctions in question. So, we mentioned that there is a median time; it is not a fixed time for every junction. We look at the configuration, the volume of pedestrians and traffic, so that we are able to achieve an optimal situation to balance the different needs.

We do have dynamic systems that are able to track traffic volume. We are working on a better system where at certain junctions we might want to install cameras at the pedestrian waiting area to track pedestrian volume and whether we are able to build that capability to also incorporate pedestrian data to adjust traffic lights timings dynamically. But it will be within a certain range.

As for the green man, the Member was talking about pressing the button, whether that activates it faster. I think it depends on the junction. For some, it does turn faster; and for some, there are some crossings where the lights do not usually change because it has a very low pedestrian crossing volume. And therefore, the lights are green in favour of the traffic, and unless someone presses it and then, it will turn red or have the green man turned on for the pedestrian. So, it serves a variety of functions. We will customise it for the need of the particular crossing and where possible, we use technology data from the Electronic Road Pricing (ERP) 2.0 system to allow us to better assess the different needs and then to achieve a more optimal situation for all.

2 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Prime Minister and Minister for Finance (a) what Singapore dollar-specific factors have contributed to its persistent weakness against the Malaysian ringgit; (b) what implications a sustained slide below the exchange rate of 3 Malaysian ringgit/Singapore dollar may have on Singapore’s labour market; and (c) whether MAS will consider strengthening policy settings or adjusting the exchange rate band to ensure stability.

Sir, the Singapore dollar has appreciated against the Malaysian ringgit at an average rate of 1.3% per annum over 2020 to 2025. However, it is important to emphasise that the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) manages the Singapore dollar against a trade-weighted basket of currencies of its major trading partners and not against any bilateral exchange rate. The Singapore dollar trade-weighted exchange rate has been on a gradual appreciating path since October 2021. The strength and stability of the Singapore dollar is assessed against the attainment of medium-term price stability in the economy.

Non-resident labour flows into Singapore principally reflect the economy’s overall growth and employment prospects.

MAS will continue to closely monitor economic and financial developments and is in an appropriate position to adjust its monetary policy stance to ensure medium-term price stability.

Mr Yip.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Minister of State for his response. With the Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link, expected to begin operation soon, cross-border travel will become faster and cheaper, making it even easier for consumers to travel across the Causeway and tap on the services there. Coupled with a weaker Singapore dollar, this could significantly reduce demand for local retailers, and food and beverage (F&B) outlets.

Will the Government look into forward-looking support measures to help local businesses prepare for this shift, given the potential impact on Singapore jobs and household incomes?

Sir, I thank Mr Yip Hon Weng for his question. I am answering this Parliamentary Question in my MAS hat, but he has asked a question wearing my Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) hat. In fact, this is regard to the RTS Link, and of course there are some relationships with the Singapore dollar as well as Malaysian ringgit.

In fact, earlier this morning I met with the RTS Link Task Force, of which I am chairing, to look at ways in which to enhance our local business, their competitiveness, their ability to place-make. In the MTI Committee of Supply, we have also announced many enhancements to the grants and support for heartland businesses, looking forward to both the challenges as well as opportunities of the RTS Link when it is operational at the end of the year.

So, as chairman of the RTS Link Task Force, we are looking at this very carefully. We have met with the merchants. We have met with Government officials, including Enterprise Singapore, the Housing and Development Board, and the National Environment Agency this morning. And we will announce these measures in due course.

3 Mr Gerald Giam Yean Song asked the Minister for Digital Development and Information (a) whether the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) compiles a list of specific mobile network dead zones across the entire MRT network; (b) if so, whether this list and the rectification status of each site will be made public via a dashboard to ensure operator accountability; and (c) how many persistent signal gaps have remained unrectified for more than 12 months.

Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) are required to meet the Infocomm Media Development Authority’s (IMDA's) 4G Quality of Service standards, and IMDA conducts regular checks to ensure these are met. This includes the requirement to provide more than 99% mobile coverage in all Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) tunnels and MRT stations in Singapore. The Quality of Service performance results for each MRT line are published on IMDA’s website.

Where there are coverage gaps found along the MRT network, IMDA works closely with MNOs to carry out enhancements that address the gaps. MNOs typically take six months to complete these enhancements, working within the limited hours of maintenance windows for tunnel access.

Mr Giam.

I thank the Senior Minister of State for the reply. For the persistent dead zones that have been remain unrectified after six months, does the Ministry impose any escalating financial penalties on the providers in order to ensure that there is a stronger commercial incentive for them to resolve the issues more speedily? And second, does IMDA track whether certain mobile operators have a higher proportion of these long-term dead zones and will this track record of non-compliance be factored into the pricing or allocation of future spectrum allocations or spectrum options?

Sir, as I said earlier in my reply, MNOs typically take six months to enhance coverage. Over the last three years, no persistent signal gaps within MRT network remained unrectified.

4 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth whether the Ministry will consider expanding the usability of ActiveSG credits to include sports facilities beyond those currently under ActiveSG, such as those in community centres and The Kallang, to offer residents greater flexibility and encourage wider participation.

The Government is committed to ensuring that public sports facilities remain accessible and affordable for all Singaporeans.

ActiveSG credits can be used at all ActiveSG sports facilities, including ActiveSG’s World Aquatics Championship Arena at The Kallang, as well as community sport facilities in Our Tampines Hub and Senja-Cashew Community Club. The credits can also be used to offset the cost of ActiveSG and Active Health programmes.

Since November 2025, we have also expanded the use of ActiveSG credits across more than 370 school sports facilities under the Dual-Use Scheme (DUS), providing more opportunities for the public to utilise their ActiveSG credits.

SportSG will continue to explore ways to expand the use of ActiveSG credits at more public sports facilities.

Mr Yip.

I thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the reply. I ask this Parliamentary Question because I have been approached by many residents who have asked to use the ActiveSG credits in community facilities, like in the Community Clubs for sports. And I want to ask the Ministry whether it will consider opening it up and ensuring that there is no fragmentation and there are no barriers to continue to help Singaporeans to remain active and healthy.

Sir, I appreciate the Member raising the interest from his residents. We are aligned in wanting to provide more access to these facilities for our Singaporeans. Rest assured, Sport SG is working on enhancing the My ActiveSG+ booking system – first, focusing on enhancing and improving the user experience, before working on expanding the use of ActiveSG credits for People's Association facilities. So, this is currently in the works.

5 Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether the Government has assessed the export potential of Singapore’s water recycling and integrated water management capabilities, particularly in regions facing rising industrial and digital infrastructure demand; and (b) whether there are plans to develop a coordinated strategy to position Singapore firms as global leaders in this sector.

6 Mr Dennis Tan Lip Fong asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) whether existing financing and risk-sharing mechanisms are sufficient for Singapore-based water-technology firms to compete internationally with state-backed competitors in large-scale overseas projects; and (b) whether further enhancements are planned to strengthen Singapore’s global competitiveness and support local firms in securing international desalination and recycling contracts.

Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to answer oral Questions Nos 5 and 6 in today’s Order Paper together, as they both relate to the international competitiveness of Singapore’s water technology firms?

Please proceed.

Thank you, Sir. Sir, water supply is an existential issue for Singapore. Therefore, the Government has been promoting the water industry and investing in the research and development (R&D) of water technologies under Research, Innovation and Enterprise (RIE). Today, Singapore is globally recognised for our integrated water management and our know-how also creates opportunities for our companies to meet the needs of other countries.

Enterprise Singapore, PUB and the Singapore Water Association work together to support Singapore-based companies such as Keppel and Sembcorp as they build capabilities and pursue opportunities overseas.

Our biennial Singapore International Water Week has become one of the world’s leading conferences for public utilities and the water industry since its establishment in 2008. It comprises flagship events that gather suppliers and customers of innovative water, coastal and flood solutions. Co-organised by PUB, the event culminates in the Lee Kuan Yew Water Prize. Events like these help Singapore-based companies and startups gain visibility and access to potential investors, partners and customers.

Our agencies also regularly organise business missions to and facilitate engagements with stakeholders in key regional markets.

These efforts have been particularly helpful for smaller companies. Hydroleap, a watertech company specialising in electrochemical separation, piloted its water recycling systems with Amazon Web Services (AWS) at a data centre facility in Singapore. It has since expanded to markets like Indonesia, Malaysia and Australia.

SG Enviro, another Singapore startup focused on advanced water purification treatment using nano-bubble technology, has been working on water reclamation and wastewater treatment projects with palm oil refineries in Malaysia.

Watertech companies like Hydroleap and SG Enviro have and can tap the Enterprise Development Grant to upgrade, innovate and access new markets and our Market Readiness Assistance grant to defray the costs of overseas market promotion. They can also use those grants for development of their businesses and to set up their businesses overseas.

Companies which need financing for overseas expansion can also tap the Enterprise Financing Scheme (EFS). Under EFS, Government offers risk sharing with participating Financial Institutions, such as for fixed asset loans for construction or the acquisition of plants and equipment. They also can access trade loans for the buying and selling of goods. We announced enhancements to some of these schemes at this year's Budget and the Ministry of Trade and Industry's Committee of Supply (MTI COS) session.

I want to ensure the Member that the Government will continue to support our local water tech companies, to strengthen their global competitiveness and better position them to pursue market opportunities abroad.

Mr Dennis Tan.

Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the Minister of State for his answers. I have different supplementary questions for Question Nos 5 and 6 respectively.

For Question No 5, I would like to ask the Minister of State, will the Government consider a circular economy export office to specifically bundle our water recycling and waste to energy technologies, like Tuas Nexus, as a single high value export for the growing cities in ASEAN and beyond in Asia?

Second supplementary question, for Question No 5. Is MTI actively marketing Singapore's integrated cooling plus water recycling solutions to regional digital hubs like Johor and Batam, to ensure our firms capture the spillover infrastructure demand from Singapore's own land constraint?

Finally, for the third supplementary question, given that water is often a sovereign municipal issue overseas, will the Government use more government-to-government platforms to pre-qualify or support Singapore water technologies in emerging markets?

For Question No 6, Mr Speaker, my supplementary questions are as follows. One, will MTI introduce a sovereign project bond or risk sharing mechanism that allows Singapore water firms to bid for larger scale overseas desalination projects with the financial backing of a, so called, Team Singapore guarantee?

Second supplementary question, will the Government allow for more export oriented test bedding within PUB facilities where the primary goal is not just local water security, but providing the firms with a globally recognised reference track to win overseas tenders?

Sir, I thank Mr Dennis Tan for his supplementary questions for both Question Nos 5 and 6. Let me try to answer them as comprehensively as possible.

With regard to the circular economy export office and the market integrated cooling solutions, there are no immediate plans to do so.

With regard to supporting Singapore water tech companies and to use our know-how to tap onto the opportunities outside of Singapore, I think those are very useful suggestions and important ones. Allow me to put that into context; because I have two questions. I can go a little bit into detail to answer Mr Dennis Tan's questions.

First of all, maybe I start with the export test bedding and talk about PUB's support. PUB, in fact, has opened up its water insulation for test bedding. For example, they have this Living Lab fund which provides R&D funding. So, if you are a local company, for example, Hydroleap or SG Enviro, you are able to use some of these funds to test bed some of these innovative solutions, which if it works, then you can potentially use it in Singapore and then potentially export to different markets.

PUB also has support schemes for companies and research institutions to then pilot and to validate these new tech, which could be applied for both industrial as well as municipal water needs.

What I thought is also very important, because the Member is asking about how Singapore water tech companies can better expand into the overseas markets, is this. Since 2006, Government has invested about $800 million from RIE on water tech. And since, then the water tech industry has grown quite significantly. In fact, we have now moved from 50 to about 400 companies and increased job opportunities. So, now, it is about over 20,000 jobs.

For the schemes, at MTI COS, we have enhanced some of these schemes to help these companies, not just water tech companies, but companies who want to expand overseas. For example, we enhanced the Market Readiness Assistance grant. So, even if you are already in the market, you can continue to use that grant.

We have enhanced the Double Tax Deduction for Internationalisation grant, and we have also enhanced the EFS.

All of these, put together, enables our companies to expand overseas. I give a quick example to illustrate this point. Hydroleap, for example. Because of the support from Enterprise Singapore and MTI, it is now able to use the Enterprise Development Grant funding to upgrade its water technologies, which I mentioned earlier on. It is now expanded to Australia. It is expanded to Thailand, for example, partnering with the Bangkok Industrial Gas, to provide smart water treatment solutions in PepsiCo Thailand.

So, I thank the Member for his questions. We are indeed looking at water as a strategic imperative, not just as an existential issue for Singapore, but also supporting our water tech companies to test bed, to validate their ideas to grow and then to expand beyond our shores.

7 Ms Valerie Lee asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) what measures the Government is taking to facilitate greater adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) within the energy generation sector; and (b) how it is supporting businesses and households in leveraging AI solutions to improve energy conservation and efficiency.

Mr Speaker, artificial intelligence (AI) can be a strong enabler in the power sector. In 2025, the Energy Market Authority (EMA) launched a regulatory sandbox for Virtual Power Plants (VPPs), which are essentially, digital platforms that control, optimise and aggregate distributed energy resources, such as solar panels and battery energy storage systems. VPP pilots may utilise AI to forecast renewable generation output and optimise generation capacity based on prevailing wholesale market conditions. EMA has also incorporated AI within its internal energy management systems to support solar forecasting.

The Government is committed to helping businesses and households improve energy conservation and efficiency, including through AI-enabled solutions. For example, Enterprise Singapore supports the Singapore Business Federation's Cost and Carbon Reduction Programme. The programme utilises a proprietary AI tool to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) identify cost reduction and decarbonisation opportunities, including through energy conservation and efficiency measures.

We welcome proposals from the public and industry on how the Government can better support the adoption of AI solutions in the power sector and for businesses and households in Singapore.

Ms Lee.

Thank you, Speaker, and I thank the Minister of State. I have two supplementary questions. For successful deployment of AI in power generation, it will require engineers with both energy and data analytics expertise. Could the Minister of State elaborate on whether there are plans to develop specialised skills in AI for the energy sector workforce?

The second supplementary question is, have we studied use cases across other jurisdictions on AI use within the power sector, for example, for power dispatch, power generation efficiency and for renewables dispatch?

The Government is committed to growing our own pipeline of talent in the energy sector and helping workers navigate their careers in this exciting space. For example, we have the Skills Framework for Energy and Power developed by SkillsFuture Singapore, Workforce Singapore and EMA with industry and union partners, mapping out the key roles and required competencies, including digital and data skills. For niche skills, the Government will work closely with industry partners and educational institutions to update the curriculum and grow talent to meet the sector's needs.

Can I ask the Member Ms Valerie Lee to repeat her second question?

Ms Lee.

Yes, so have we studied used cases across other countries on AI use within a power sector, for example, for power dispatch, or for power generation efficiency? And in what countries did we do so?

I thank the Member for her question. Indeed, we have a lot to learn from other countries. We recognise that AI is a strong enabler in the power sector and that other countries could be more advanced than us in the adoption of AI. We are studying various AI solutions, which other countries have deployed for both energy generation and the grid network. Some examples include the use of AI for predictive maintenance of energy assets and the application of machine learning to enhance the operational efficiency of both traditional and renewable energy sources.

8 Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis asked the Minister for Education (a) whether the Ministry provides guidelines to teachers and schools on the handling of children who may have or are diagnosed with special education needs (SEN); (b) what is the annual number of hours of SEN training provided to teachers; and (c) whether the Ministry conducts an annual review on the best practices across schools in providing support to children.

The Ministry provides guidelines, information and video resources to schools to support students with special educational needs (SEN). Through Teaching and Learning Guides, all teachers are provided with practical strategies to support the learning of diverse learners, including students with SEN.

All new teachers undergo basic training covering how to engage students with SEN during their pre-service training. After they start teaching, they continue to deepen their SEN-related skills through workshops and Networked Learning Communities in areas, such as inclusive pedagogy. Micro-Learning Units offer just-in-time learning opportunities to build teachers' understanding of principles for supporting students with SEN and strategies for an inclusive classroom. Each school also has Teachers Trained in Special Needs who have completed a 130-hour certificate-level course conducted by the National Institute of Education. All mainstream schools also have SEN Officers who work with school personnel to develop customised interventions to support the specific needs of students with SEN, particularly those with higher needs.

The Ministry of Education (MOE) facilitates systematic sharing of best practices among mainstream schools, as well as between mainstream schools and Special Education schools. MOE continually reviews our guidelines and good practices through monitoring international research, international good practice and local practice.

Mr Chua.

Thank you, Speaker. Just two quick supplementary questions. The first is on the guide that the Senior Parliamentary Secretary shared just now. I wanted to ask if that is actually consistent across all the different schools and whether this can be made available to across both parents and teachers, so that everyone can have a better understanding on how best to support the children.

The second question is in relation to the training. So, I understand that for in service teachers, there are optional online courses that they can sign up for as part of their 40 hours continuous professional development (CPD), but just wanted to ask what is the actual number of hours of these SEN-related training that is being imparted? May I also ask as a extension where, if you look at the finance industry for certain modules, such as ethics or regulations, there are minimum hours required for these components, whether or not there is a specified requirements for this continuous training.

I thank the Member for his supplementary questions. On the first question with regard to the guide and whether it is standardised across the schools – indeed, it is something that we endeavour to have. In terms of access for our teachers for their continual education, we do have a variety of platforms which are accessible for our teachers at different levels.

First, we have the SEN Resource Portal and this offers schools with the structures, the guidelines and the resources to support students with SEN.

Second, we also have the Transition Support Framework for which there is guidance of facilitating students' successful transitions in new settings through a planned, goal-oriented process.

And third, we also have the SEN:se Online Professional Development, a series of practice oriented online modules on OPAL 2.0 for teachers' just-in-time learning and also bite-sized, locally produced modules covering perceptions about SEN, support principles on needs and not on diagnosis, as well as strategies on positive classroom culture and behavioural support.

So, these are the variety of opportunities for our teachers to look at where their needs are in terms of their teaching, in the classroom and directly, they can apply through the learning process through their CPD.

As to the Member's question about parents, there is separate information that we push through our Parents Gateway, to our parents, to be able to allow them to in turn, look towards supporting their children with SEN where the needs apply.

In terms of the specific number of hours in terms of SEN, I do not have the exact number of hours that we have for our teachers, but suffice to say, they have the flexibility to look at what lessons they require, what additional modules they wish to be able to have; and they can apply that in turn, because it is readily accessible for them.

If they are keen on developing further towards becoming a Teacher Trained in Special Needs, then they will transit into the 130-hour Certificate Module by the National Institute of Education, as I mentioned earlier.

Order. End of Question Time. Introduction of Government Bills. Minister for Sustainability and the Environment.

[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 Energy Conservation Act 2012", (proc text)]

[(proc text) presented by the Senior Minister of State for Sustainability and the Environment (Dr Janil Puthucheary), on behalf of the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, 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) "to establish the Veterinary Council, to provide for the registration of veterinarians and the regulation of individuals practising veterinary medicine and for matters connected therewith and to make consequential amendments to certain other Acts", (proc text)]

[(proc text) presented by the Minister of State for National Development (Mr Alvin Tan), on behalf of the Minister for National Development, 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 [7th Allotted Day]. (proc text)]

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

[(proc text) Head I (Cont) – (proc text)]

[(proc text) Resumption of Debate on Question [5 March 2026] (proc text)]

[(proc text) "That the total sum to be allocated for Head I of the Estimates be reduced by $100." – [Mr Xie Yao Quan] (proc text)]

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

Minister of State Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim.

Chairman, several Members, such as Mr Xie Yao Quan, Mr Melvin Yong, Ms Mariam Jaafar and Mr Cai Yinzhou, have raised concerns about improving social mobility. This has always been an area of focus for the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF).

As we saw in the Ministry of Finance (MOF) Occasional Paper last month, Singapore has done relatively well in this area compared to other advanced economies. However, like in other advanced economies, pressures are likely to persist or even intensify. Hence, MSF will redouble our efforts to enhance social mobility.

MSF's goal is to support lower-income families to progressively achieve the "3S" outcomes: stability, self-reliance and ultimately, social mobility. We are going beyond social assistance to social empowerment by supporting our families through three things.

First, a safety net. When families fall on hard times, we provide a safety net through immediate support. Second, a steadying hand. MSF provides a boost so families can get back on their feet and take the next step forward. Third, a supported ladder. MSF supports families with opportunities to grow their own resources. Such opportunities, when harnessed, will allow families to reach, grab the next rung and pull themselves up. In this way, MSF empowers families to succeed by overcoming challenges, seizing opportunities and most importantly, doing so with dignity.

This is what drives ComLink+.

Today, MSF supports around 11,000 ComLink+ families. We started with families living in public rental housing and we have been expanding to other lower-income families, such as those on KidSTART. Each ComLink+ family has a Social Service Office (SSO) family coach or Family Service Centre (FSC) case worker. They are the family’s greatest champion – someone in their corner who understands their circumstances and walks alongside them towards their longer-term goals.

Mr Xie Yao Quan suggested efforts to address slowing social mobility. ComLink+ seeks to do precisely that by providing targeted support across key domains and over different life stages, such as income security, children’s development and education, housing, family functioning, financial resilience and health. As families’ needs are varied and dynamic, we co-develop an action plan with each family.

As mentioned by Minister Masagos, MSF is committed to invest in research to better understand the impact of these efforts. We do not have all the answers on how to best support families to achieve social mobility. But by learning continuously and applying these insights, we will be able to refine our intervention and update our slate of support.

From a safety net to a steadying hand. When family coaches or case workers start journeying with families, they address the families' immediate needs. This could mean referring the family for ComCare assistance and other financial support for some interim relief. Together, these form our safety net for families.

But a safety net may not be enough for upward mobility. This is where we offer a hand to give families a boost to progress in a steady, sustained manner.

We therefore introduced the ComLink+ Progress Packages to encourage families moving towards their goals. Launched progressively over the last two years, these packages boost families’ efforts through financial top-ups when they take action in four areas: preschool enrolment and attendance, employment, debt clearance and home ownership.

Let me introduce Joseph, a family coach, who has been working with Ms Erna and her husband, Mr Suhaimi, together with their young children, aged one to 10. Joseph remembers when Mr Suhaimi shared his dream to move out of their rental flat and into their own home. Hearing that, Joseph worked with the family to chart out a roadmap and encouraged them along the way to achieve this dream. Acting on the plan, both Ms Erna and Mr Suhaimi are working hard. They are committed to employment and their children’s education. With ComLink+ Progress Package top-ups, they are also able to set aside more savings for their future.

However, as noted by Mr Melvin Yong, some families find the conditions too complicated or difficult to meet. With that, as announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong in his Budget speech, we are enhancing the ComLink+ Progress Packages this year.

First, all ComLink+ families will now receive a new payout of $500 each quarter. We will call this the Partnership Payout. It reflects the families' commitment to work with us to improve their circumstances. Families will receive this payout after agreeing to be on ComLink+ and will continue to receive it so long as they keep taking steps towards their goals. With steady, predictable support, families can better focus on longer-term goals.

Second, many families work hard to maintain employment and regular preschool attendance. Yet, despite genuine effort, some may not be able to meet their targets due to their circumstances. We are therefore adjusting our conditions to better support families with more complex challenges.

For employment, we will look at the whole family's efforts, rather than the income of each person. For example, Ms Erna's part-time job's salary currently does not qualify her for payout on its own. However, with the enhanced progress package, it will now be counted together with her husband's earnings towards their family's employment milestones. For preschool, we will introduce intermediate milestones to encourage families' progress towards regular attendance.

Overall, a ComLink+ family with two preschool-aged children can receive up to $10,000 every year by maintaining a household income of at least $2,000 and regular preschool attendance.

More of the payout will be in cash to better support families facing day-to-day cashflow challenges. At the same time, a portion will continue to be placed in families' Central Provident Fund (CPF) and Child Development Accounts (CDA), so that we support not just today's needs but also tomorrow's security.

As noted by Mr Cai Yinzhou, some families may be hesitant to get on board ComLink+. Together with these enhancements, family coaches will step up efforts to reach out to families by working closely with Government agencies and community partners in their support system.

A supported ladder. Once families get back on their feet and start to move forward, we support them to take charge of their long-term progress. At MSF, our goal is to create opportunities that families can seize for themselves.

Employment is one of the best ways to do this. However, lower-income families often face barriers to employment that are not so straightforward to address, especially with limited financial resources. Even with a stable job, they may need certain educational qualifications or skills to unlock higher wages. We will therefore put in place more enablers to bridge the gap to employment, starting with three enhancements: facilitate job matching, enable upskilling and support caregiving. Allow me to elaborate.

On job matching, MSF is reviewing how to provide tailored support for lower-income families navigating the world of work as they may face more challenges finding suitable jobs. For example, lower-income jobseekers tend to work in service industries, where work schedules are less flexible on short notice. This makes it harder to deal with family emergencies, such as picking their children from school when they fall ill. MSF is thus working with partners, such as Employment and Employability Institute (e2i), AKG and TOUCH Community Services, to strengthen employment support for these families to prepare them for work, find suitable jobs and ultimately do well in their jobs.

We will also provide more support for upskilling. Some ComLink+ families today have younger jobseekers, who with the right skills, can unlock better-paying jobs. While broad-based schemes like SkillsFuture exist, ComLink+ families may benefit from a more targeted approach.

Families bear some costs when they choose to upskill. For example, their income may be disrupted during their studies and it is not certain even that they will get a job with a higher salary after. MSF has observed that this deters some ComLink+ families from upskilling even when they want to do so and even when they have the opportunity to do so.

That is why we rolled out a ComLink+ Skills Upgrading Support Pilot this January. When ComLink+ individuals aged 18 to 39 undergo full-time education or vocational training, they will receive support for basic living expenses. They will also receive an incentive of $500 for every three months that they sustain their education.

On caregiving, parents will have peace of mind to work when they know that their children are being taken care of and meaningfully engaged after school hours. MSF supports this by making after-school care more accessible, more affordable.

As announced by the Prime Minister in his Budget speech, MSF will increase the Student Care Fee Assistance income threshold from $4,500 to $6,500 and update the income tiers. This will benefit around 13,000 students.

We are also giving parents greater assurance of support so that they can plan ahead. Parents can now submit their Student Care Fee Assistance applications up to six months before their child’s enrolment in a Student Care Centre. Eligible parents will be granted in-principle approval, which guarantees that they will receive Student Care Fee Assistance once they enrol in an eligible centre. We are also extending the maximum Student Care Fee Assistance assistance period from 24 months to 36 months.

Mr Cai Yinzhou highlighted that children should have opportunities to continue developing holistically outside school hours. We totally agree. As a parent myself, the time I spend with my children after hours, after work, allows me to bond with them and explore their interests. Lower-income families, who are often stretched in time and resources, could especially benefit from additional support to purposefully engage their children.

As part of Grow Well SG, we have worked with Families for Life partners to provide low-cost activities for screen-free family bonding. Families can enjoy children's books, discounted attractions and community events.

Working towards the 3S outcomes is a long journey for our ComLink+ families. One of the factors that can derail progress is dealing with health issues. When we are unwell, it is not easy to meet our responsibilities at home, at school or at work, let alone pursue our aspirations. And yet, for many ComLink+ families who are busy making ends meet, they tend to deprioritise these health concerns. Over time, this can lead to poorer health outcomes, leaving some families trapped in a vicious cycle where poor health makes it harder to stabilise their lives, and life's pressures make it even harder for them to stay well.

We want to help them break out of this cycle. Therefore, as mentioned by Minister Masagos, we trialled a new model of support in 2025. We tested how family coaches and healthcare staff, together, could achieve two things. First, set health goals and actions that support families to take care of their health even as they juggle competing needs. Second, streamline service delivery, so families do not have to interact with too many officers, which can be overwhelming.

MSF, the Ministry of Health and the healthcare clusters are finetuning the model and will extend it to more ComLink+ families this year. Together with the extension of Healthier SG to younger ComLink+ families, shared by Minister Masagos, we hope families will be empowered to take charge of their health.

Ms Mariam Jaafar would be pleased to know that as we develop more interventions to support families towards the 3S outcomes, families will not face a navigation nightmare. Instead, it has always been the intent of ComLink+ for family coaches to co-develop action plans with families that sequence the interventions in a manageable way. Family coaches will also connect families to the resources and support to achieve their goals. This is how ComLink+ aims to provide each family with a pathway towards social mobility tailored to their needs.

Such efforts reveal how we can do better together, but the Government cannot do this alone. Minister Masagos proposed 3Cs to guide how we partner with others. We will collaborate, cooperate and co-create. Because truly, it takes a whole-of-society effort to uplift each other.

We thank our partners for working closely with MSF, like the DBS Foundation, which has been a strong supporter of the ComLink+ progress packages for preschool and homeownership. We look forward to more partners coming onboard.

With tighter partnerships, we can weave stronger safety nets, offer more steadying hands and craft sturdier supported ladders. Together, we will journey with our families to achieve stability, self-reliance and social mobility. Chairman, in Malay, please.

(In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] In these challenging times, many Singaporean families face numerous obstacles. These include rising costs of living, the need to upgrade skills in a rapidly changing economy and various daily responsibilities that often test our families' resilience and perseverance.

Yet we continue to stand firm, facing these challenges steadfastly. As the saying goes, "Effort is the ladder to success". Every small step taken with a sharp mind, determination and collaborative spirit brings us closer to our dreams.

Families like Mdm Erna's embody this spirit. Mdm Erna's husband, who works as a clerk, is working towards getting his driving licence to secure better job opportunities. Mdm Erna herself works hard, taking on part-time jobs more frequently despite being busy caring for her children. With sustained and comprehensive support, their efforts will bear even greater fruit.

In their journey to improve their quality of life, families like Mdm Erna's do not have to go through it alone. MSF is committed to supporting every family that needs help so they can achieve stability, self-reliance and progress.

We will therefore enhance the ComLink+ Progress Packages to ensure more families can get the support they need for their next steps. With this enhanced package, families like Mdm Erna's can better manage daily expenses and build savings for the future. MSF will also boost after-school care support by raising the income criteria for Student Care Fee Assistance from $4,500 to $6,500. More than 13,000 students and their families will benefit.

Beyond Government support, community organisations play a vital role. MSF has strengthened collaboration with them, particularly in expanding employment support and skills development opportunities for low-income families.

We must stand by those families in need. We value our Malay/Muslim organisations' efforts and hope more organisations will join hands with MSF to build a caring and united society.

Through close cooperation, we can build a caring and inclusive society for everyone at every stage of life.

Let us continue working together to build a Singapore that gives hope and opportunities for every family to become stronger, self-reliant and progress. Strong families are the bedrock of a successful society. This is our shared responsibility.

(In English): Chairman, real support is not just once-off. It is journeying together, step by step. Families, like Ms Erna's, know their strength and hard work will be seen by their family coaches, like Joseph. They will never have to walk alone.

In MSF, we believe that collective efforts by the Government, partners and the families themselves, will turn obstacles into opportunities, trials into triumphs, hardships into hope for families who need it the most. As a society, we need to ensure that no family is trapped by their circumstances, no child is defined by their starting point, no potential goes unrealised and no hope beyond reach.

This is not just a social policy; it is a moral responsibility. As a society, we will empower all families to unlock their maximum potential, for a brighter future. As we move collectively from assistance to empowerment, this future is shaped not by what we give to families, but by what families are enabled to become.

Senior Parliamentary Secretary Eric Chua.

Chairman, a fair and inclusive society does not expect people to fit neatly into our systems. Instead, it asks the question: how must our systems evolve so that every person can flourish?

At MSF, that is the question guiding our work. Earlier, Minister of State Zhulkarnain spoke about uplifting low-income families. I would like to focus on another group of families who carry both immense love and immense responsibility, families with persons with disabilities (PwDs).

When I meet parents and caregivers, one concern surfaces time and again. It is not just about today. It is also about tomorrow. They ask me, after my child graduates from special education (SPED) school, what comes next? Will there be a community? Will there be meaningful opportunities? And most importantly: perhaps when I am no longer around, who will look after my child?

Sir, these are deeply human questions, and under the Enabling Masterplan 2030, we are addressing them in three ways.

First, building capability through lifelong learning. Second, building communities where PwDs truly belong. And third, building lifelong security so families can plan with confidence. Allow me to share more.

For many families, graduation from SPED school is both a proud milestone as well as a moment of uncertainty. Each year, about 250 SPED graduates move into employment or further studies within six months of graduation. Behind each statistic is a young person taking a brave step into adulthood, and parents learning, oftentimes anxiously, to let go. Access to lifelong learning is important to facilitate a smoother transition to life beyond school.

Mr Ng Chee Meng and Ms Denise Phua will be pleased to know that we provide funding support for skills training through the SG Enable Training Grant. SG Enable, supported by SkillsFuture Singapore, will introduce new courses from April this year, adding to the existing 140 active courses curated by the Enabling Academy.

But skills alone are not enough. We need inclusive employers.

SG Enable is partnering employers in sectors, such as food and beverage (F&B) and Health and Social services to curate job roles thoughtfully. And through various grants, wage offsets and the Enabling Mark, our national accreditation framework, organisations can steadily strengthen the inclusive hiring practices.

Inclusive hiring is not charity. It is good business. It enriches workplaces with resilience, loyalty and diverse perspectives. For graduates with higher support needs, centre-based services remain critical. Today, about 3,600 PwDs attend our Daily Activity Centres (DACs) and Sheltered Workshops (SWs). [Please refer to the clarification later in the debate.]

Behind this number are real families, like 21-year-old Mirza and his mother, Mdm Habibah, who simply wants the best for her son.

After graduating from SPED school, Mirza tried a placement with a SW before eventually settling into a DAC at SUN-DAC. I visited Mirza recently. For him, the DAC gives him good structure, friendship and a safe space to grow. Every Thursday, Mirza goes on walks around Bedok. He buys prata, sometimes ice cream, learns how to count money and take the bus. These are meaningful lessons in independence.

For his mother, Mdm Habibah, the programme gives her peace of mind. She can go to work knowing that Mirza is safe and meaningfully engaged, and treasures coming home to hear his story about the day.

But we know the current wait time, from referral to enrolment, is long, over half a year on average. This weighs heavily on families. When the child graduates, six months can feel like an eternity.

We are accelerating expansion. Our pledge was to add 500 DAC and 500 SW places by 2030. But in fact, we have already added 100 shelter workshop places in 2024. A further 520 DAC and 360 SW spaces will come on stream progressively by 2027.

As capacity builds, families on the waitlist are not left alone. Enabling Services Hubs (ESHs) offer activities and serve as community touch points. For recent graduates, the Supported Transition and Engagement Programme (STEP) ensures they remain meaningfully engage with outings and activities at least twice weekly while waiting for placement.

All this, because transition should not mean isolation.

We also heard feedback that moving between SW and DACs can be cumbersome. Re-assessments, transitions – families told us that it felt like starting from scratch each time the needs changed. So, last year we launched the Enabling Skills for Life Programme (ESLP).

ESLP integrates both models – SW and DAC – into a single continuum. More importantly, it introduces individualised curriculum and development plans co-created with clients and caregivers. That co-creation is important because no one knows a person's strengths and aspirations better than the individual himself or herself, and the family members.

As of January this year, close to 770 clients across eight centres have transitioned to ESLP, and we will continue refining the service model over the next three years. Our aim is simple: as each individual grows, the support around them grows too. This means that ESLP clients will have access to more training pathways depending on their specific needs and aspirations.

Sir, skills matter, but belonging matters just as much.

To this end, MSF is piloting two community living models to strengthen support for independent living. The first is the Enabled Living Programme (ELP) pilot, which has started in five locations, and we are doing this in close partnership with appointed SSAs.

Delivered within designated public rental flats, ELP allows PwDs with low to moderate support needs and no to little family support to live independently.

When I recently spoke to Boon Hao, an ELP resident supported by the Autism Resource Centre, he did not talk about policies or subsidies. He spoke about hosting his friends on Valentine's Day – about the dishes he prepared, about the chore schedule he shares with his roommate, Vincent, about grocery runs at Ang Mo Kio Hub. These may sound like mundane things, but for Boon Hao, they represent dignity, independence, friendship.

Through ELP, persons with low to moderate support needs can live independently in public rental flats, supported by coaches and community networks. Residents may not live with family, but they are never alone. Grassroots leaders check in, neighbours build friendships, and Boon Hao is even exploring volunteering. That is inclusion, in action. Living side by side, contributing to the same community.

We will also launch the Home Support Programme in the second half of this year, extending similar support to those already living independently or has plans to do so in their homes, near ELP sites.

Alongside community-living models, we are strengthening neighbourhood support through our ESHs. The idea is straightforward: support should be close to home and easy to access.

Our ESHs in Tampines, Punggol and Jurong have worked with over 300 community partners and volunteers in the past two years: from grassroots organisations to schools and local businesses. They conduct outreach, organise learning workshops and social activities, and link PwDs and caregivers to relevant services.

For families, the ESH can be a reassuring first touchpoint: a place to ask questions, seek guidance and find support without feeling overwhelmed. More importantly, ESHs help communities grow in confidence. Through inclusion workshops and partnerships, neighbours learn how to better welcome and support PwDs in everyday settings.

Because when support is embedded within our neighborhoods, PwDs are not seen simply as clients of a programme, but they are recognised as fellow residents, friends and contributors to the same community they live in.

Chairman, caregivers carry quiet courage. Many worry most not about themselves, but about what will happen after they are gone. We recognise the challenges they face and we must ensure they are well-supported on this journey.

As Singapore ages, this concern becomes more urgent. Caregivers themselves grow older too. Health challenges emerge over time. Future planning cannot wait. As noted by Assoc Prof Kenneth Poon, a chief area of concern for caregivers is how their loved ones will be cared for after they pass. We are supporting families in three ways: first, near-term relief; second, strengthened savings; and third, secure future arrangements.

First, to provide near-term financial relief, Prime Minister announced in Budget last year that subsidies will be increased for adult disability services and extended to more households. Since January this year, subsidies for the Assistive Technology Fund were enhanced, and extended to families with per capita income between $2,601 and $4,800. Through the Assistive Technology Fund, eligible families can purchase assistive technology devices for independent living. From July 2026, we will increase subsidies for residential and community disability services by up to 15 and 10 percentage points respectively. The income threshold for subsidies will also be raised, extending eligibility to households with per capita income between $3,601 and $4,800.

Ms Denise Phua and Ms Kuah Boon Theng would be pleased to know that these enhancements will provide additional financial relief for 3,600 PwDs accessing our residential and community disability services, including those attending Day Activity Centres.

Ms Phua and Ms Kuah also noted that our funding to service providers impact service access and quality. And that is exactly why we regularly review our funding models for relevance. We last increased funding to Day Activity Centre providers in 2021, and to disability residential service providers last year, in 2025, to account for inflation and enhanced staffing requirements for clients with higher support needs. The inter-agency Taskforce on Assurance for Families with Persons with Disabilities will explore more ways to keep disability support affordable for families and sustainable for service providers.

Second, on strengthening savings. From January this year, eligible Singaporeans with disabilities are included in the Matched Retirement Saving Scheme (MRSS). This was announced by the Ministry of Manpower at the Committee of Supply last year. Under the MRSS, we dollar-match CPF top-ups for those eligible, up to an annual cap of $2,000 and a lifetime limit of $20,000.

This means that if a parent of a seven-year-old with a verified disability status tops up $2,000 annually to their child's account, we will match by topping up another $2,000 each year. Assuming: one, the parent consistently tops up $2,000 annually over 10 years to hit the lifetime cap of $20,000; and two, a 4% compounding interest, this child would have minimally $320,000 in CPF retirement savings by age 65. This translates to at least $1,700 in monthly payouts for life, from age 65. If a parent tops up consistently from a young age, the compounded impact can be substantial, giving their child meaningful CPF payouts in later life. This is all about dignity in their senior years.

Third, on securing future arrangements. Caregivers need assurance that these funds are secure when they are no longer around. The Special Needs Trust Company can help.

As announced at Budget last year, we will be introducing a dollar-for-dollar matching grant for tops-ups to the Special Needs Trust (SNT) accounts. From 1 April this year till 31 March 2031, families with per capita household income of up to $3,600 can sign up to receive matching top-ups of up to $10,000 to the SNT accounts. [Please refer to the clarification later in the debate.]

Parents can further multiply their financial provisions for their child by buying a Great Eastern Cares Term Plan. This term plan insures parents up till age 100, with coverage ranging from $100,000 to $300,000.

For insurance coverage of $250,000, a healthy 33-year-old mother with per capita household income below $3,600 would only need to make a one-off trust top-up of $10,000 to her child's account to cover the total premiums for the plan. Upon the insured parent's demise before age 100, $250,000 will be paid into the child's SNT account.

As premiums increase with age and the amount insured, caregivers are thus encouraged to start these conversations early with SG Enable. Case Managers, who are social work-trained, will work with caregivers to craft personalised care plans and ensure funds are disbursed in accordance with these plans after caregivers have passed.

These measures offer real relief for caregivers. I recently met Mdm Kitty Li. Kitty is the mother of a child living with autism and she was initially hesitant due to the initial capital needed to start an SNT account for her child. With the Community Chest sponsorship, Mdm Li can start saving in the SNT account to benefit from the Government Matching Grant and use these savings to purchase a Great Eastern Cares Term Plan.

While we work on ensuring our initiatives remain fit for purpose, we agree with Miss Rachel Ong that raising awareness is a crucial part of ensuring that these initiatives have reach. Beyond what is available on their website, SG Enable has developed the Enabling Guide to consolidate information on available support. And they will also continue engaging with partners, such as employers and industry chambers, to raise awareness of inclusive hiring and employment support.

We also endeavour to improve accessibility to our initiatives given the wide range of needs. To Miss Rachel Ong's query, we are studying how to improve deaf access services, including training more Singapore Sign Language interpreters. There are also SSAs like SADeaf, who provide casework and counselling services using sign language. Chairman, please allow me to say a few words in Mandarin.

(In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Chairman, promoting a more inclusive Singapore is the shared aspiration of all Singaporeans. We hope to build a Singapore where PwDs can pursue their own ideals and aspirations.

Through employment support, Day Activity Centres and Sheltered Workshops, as well as the Enabling Skills for Life Programme, we hope to help PwDs build lifelong learning capabilities, enabling them to better integrate into society and live meaningful lives.

We implement the Enabled Living Programme, the Home Support Programme, and establish Enabling Services Hubs to strengthen the support networks for persons with disabilities at home and in the community, allowing them to live independently in the community for the long term.

We have not forgotten about the family members and caregivers around PwDs. The existing CPF Top-Up Matching Scheme and Special Needs Trust Company are in place to provide financial security for special needs families, giving them a peace of mind in planning for the future.

We will continue to collaborate with partners from all sectors to ensure that every person with disabilities can find their place in our country and live dignified and meaningful lives. This is our commitment and determination in building a more inclusive and caring home.

(In English): Chairman, as we journey towards 2030, our commitment very clear: to build a Singapore where PwDs pursue aspirations with confidence, where families trust that support will endure.

And we will keep listening and we will keep refining. We thank Ms Denise Phua for her suggestions to the Taskforce, and we will deliberate over her input and share more when ready.

Sir, policies alone cannot create inclusion. Policies remove barriers. People create belonging. Inclusion happens when employers open doors, when neighbours extend friendship and when communities choose to see ability before disability.

PwDs are not defined by what they need. They are defined by the strengths they contribute: resilience, creativity, loyalty, courage. They are not passive recipients of support, much like seniors in our community. They are partners in our shared future.

So, let us move forward together: not by asking people to fit into narrow definitions, but by shaping a society heartful enough for every Singaporean to belong. And that is how we advance an inclusive Singapore. One where everyone, truly, can thrive. [Applause.]

Minister of State Goh Pei Ming.

Mr Chairman, MSF is committed to building a nation that supports Singaporeans in raising strong families and giving every child a good start.

Today, I will elaborate on three strategies to achieve this: starting strong – building firm foundations within the home; starting early – ensuring access to affordable and quality early childhood education; and starting together – working as a community to support our families.

Strong, Early, Together. And if we take the first letter of each, they spell out SET, reflecting our shared commitment to ensuring that families are set to thrive in Singapore.

I will begin by sharing how we are supporting our families to start strong. For many of us, families are our safe harbour and where we turn to in our happiest and also our most challenging moments. An MSF survey in 2023 showed that most Singaporeans have a closely-knit family and believe in its importance.

We will continue to support families to build strong foundations within the home. Mr Gabriel Lam and Mr Melvin Yong asked about support available for the different family types, while Ms Eileen Chong asked about strengthening support for parents and caregivers.

MSF is committed in our efforts to strengthen all families. Our children deserve to be valued and given equal opportunities to thrive. Benefits that support their growth and development, such as subsidies for education, healthcare, and the CDA, are given to all citizen children, regardless of their parents’ marital status.

To help all families stay resilient, we offer holistic support at every stage of life. These programmes range from financial assistance to family counselling to parenting workshops. For more vulnerable households, by adopting a holistic case management approach, our Family Service Centres help them manage multiple stressors and break out of inter-generational patterns. Minister Masagos has also shared that we will double our family counselling capacity under the Strengthening Families Programme (FAM) by 2030.

To provide better support for caregivers, we have significantly enhanced leave provisions for parents of newborns, increased mandatory paternity leave, and introduced a new Shared Parental Leave scheme, and in total, parents now have up to 30 weeks of paid parental leave from April 2026 onwards. The Ministry of Manpower has also introduced the Tripartite Guidelines on flexible work arrangements to help caregivers.

MSF's latest survey findings show that more than 85% of Singaporean families reported moderate to high family resilience scores, reflecting good ability to bounce back from life’s challenges. Nonetheless, data also shows that our divorced, widowed and separated respondents reported a lower family resilience score compared to married respondents. MSF will continue to track the resilience of families and study whether to provide more targeted support for single parent households.