Hansard, Monday, 14 January 2013

For the record, I have to inform hon Members that on 12 December 2012, Mr Michael Palmer resigned from his seat in Parliament for the electoral division of Punggol East. Hon Members were notified of the resignation of Mr Michael Palmer by me on the same day.

In accordance with Article 46(2) of the Constitution, the seat of Mr Michael Palmer as Member became vacant on 12 December 2012. In accordance with Article 40(4)(b), the office of the Speaker became vacant on the same day. Hon Members shall now elect a person to fill that office.

[(proc text) At 1.30 pm, the Serjeant-at-Arms laid the Mace below the Table. (proc text)]

stood up, and addressing herself to the Clerk of Parliament said: Clerk of Parliament, I propose that Mdm Halimah Yacob do take the Chair of this Parliament as Speaker.

Clerk of Parliament, I support the proposal.

[(proc text) There being only one proposal, the Clerk then declared Mdm Halimah Yacob to have been duly elected as Speaker of this Parliament. (proc text)]

[(proc text) Mdm Speaker went to the Chair and sat down. (proc text)]

[(proc text) Then the Mace (which before laid below the Table) was placed on the Table. (proc text)]

[Mdm Speaker in the Chair]

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Mdm Speaker, this House congratulates you on your election as the ninth Speaker of Parliament. I utter those words "Mdm Speaker" for the first time in this House. All of us are, of course, delighted that a lady now sits in that Chair.

Madam, you are well suited to preside over this House. Elected as a Member of Parliament in 2001, you quickly gained a formidable reputation as an active and ardent backbencher and NTUC union leader. In that role, you championed the rights and well-being of our workers, especially against their unfair treatment, low wages and discriminatory practices. Your passion extended to alleviating hardships faced by women, families and children. You pushed fervently for more help to salvage broken families and, particularly, so that their children could climb out of the poverty trap.

It seemed, therefore, a natural fit when the Prime Minister appointed you as a Minister of State for the Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports in 2011, now the Ministry of Social and Family Development. This House may have then lost an effective backbencher but Singaporeans gained when you, as an office holder, continued to roll out policies that helped our elderly, the poor and needy, as well as strengthened social services for children and families.

While we will now miss your contributions in Government, your deep experience in both the back and front benches, together with your legal training, equip you admirably to be an effective Speaker. This House is, therefore, fully confident that you will preside over its proceedings with impartiality and maintain the high standards of this Parliament. In turn, all Members pledge that we will conduct ourselves with dignity and decorum always, even in heated debate.

Madam, while your election as Speaker is a propitious event, it has been precipitated by regrettable circumstances when your immediate predecessor, Mr Michael Palmer, resigned as a Member of Parliament and, therefore, under our Constitution, ceased to be the Speaker. In a letter to the Prime Minister, Mr Palmer explained that he resigned to "take full responsibility for a grave mistake that he had committed" as he had had an improper relationship with a

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grassroots staff. Mr Palmer apologised deeply for his actions.

Madam, I am sure that all Members of this House are disappointed and saddened by the events that led to Mr Palmer's resignation. As Mr Palmer himself acknowledged in his statement, he resigned as a Member in order to avoid further embarrassment to Parliament. The Prime Minister had replied to him that "MPs must uphold the highest standards of personal conduct". As elected representatives of our people, we are all public figures, and must uphold standards of propriety that can match up to the moral and ethical norms and expectations of our society.

Nevertheless, I think this House would also agree with the Prime Minister in his assessment that, as Speaker from October 2011 to December 2012, Mr Palmer had "presided over proceedings in the House with dignity and a sure touch… and won the respect of Ministers and backbenchers alike". Indeed, I found Mr Palmer an able Speaker who moved proceedings smoothly, where all Members were given equal opportunities to air their views. He was diligent, proactive and effectively presided over our various Select Committees including the Special Select Committee on Nominations for Appointment as Nominated Members of Parliament (NMPs), through which the first batch of nine Nominated Members of Parliament of the Twelfth Parliament were nominated to the President for appointment.

Mr Palmer has said that he is "deeply sorry" to everyone who believed in him and supported him. On behalf of this House, I express our hope that Mr Palmer can redress his mistakes and rebuild his life. We wish him well.

Mdm Speaker, we will now need to look forward and focus on important national issues before this House. Indeed, Parliament has its work cut out for its remaining session. Over the next few months, we will debate the Population White Paper, the Budget and Estimates in the Committee of Supply. Singapore is at the cusp of transition as we face impending and difficult challenges, particularly from the effects of an ageing population coupled with low fertility rates. With more elderly Singaporeans, we must step up our social services and health care. For the first time in our history, the citizen workforce will shrink from 2020. Limits of land and labour will increasingly constrain our growth. We will have to adjust to lower growth rates compared to the last two decades. Against this, a more educated population has higher aspirations for jobs, wages and quality of living that we must satisfy. Our ASEAN neighbours, with their younger populations, abundant labour and natural resources will grow faster than us and give Singapore stiff competition for investments. The external

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environment remains uncertain with weak US, Europe and Japanese economies. The peace and security of our region is worrisome as tensions continue in the South China Sea, East China Sea and beyond. Together, we have achieved much in the past but Singapore's continued prosperity and progress is not and has never been a given.

Amid these challenges, we in this House must ably guide Singaporeans to choose wisely for our future to maintain, if not improve, our standard of living. There will be crucial national issues put before us and difficult decisions to make. We must expect vigorous debates to balance the trade-offs with different choices.

Mdm Speaker, in all of this, we expect your firm and impartial hand that will move our debates and deliberations towards fruitful and expeditious outcomes. In this, your task will be simpler if all Members remember to keep their speeches short and to the point.

Mdm Speaker, we look forward to your leadership and contributions in the years ahead. This House must quickly gear itself up for much work that lay ahead of us.

Mdm Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to extend to you my heartiest congratulations on your election as the first female Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore.

Since the news of your nomination, many Singaporeans of all races, languages, religions, political affiliations and gender, have shown overwhelming support of you, both online and in traditional media.

Your stellar performance in your 30-year career as a legally trained unionist, a parliamentarian and as an office holder has been well covered in the local media. Our Prime Minister, no less, has commended you on the practical and compassionate voice you had brought to his Cabinet.

You have commanded the respect of many of your colleagues in the union. Many have no doubt that you will do a fine job as a Speaker, without fear or favour. Those who serve in the social services sector bid you a reluctant farewell – happy that you have been promoted but also confessing that they will miss interacting directly with a passionate and tireless supporter such as you. You have been especially known as a strong advocate for workers, women and the

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Malay/Muslim community.

On the personal front, despite your stellar rise, you have maintained a humble lifestyle of voluntary simplicity, a much aspired lifestyle choice for those who wish to travel lighter in our life journeys. You are, indeed, and truly a national asset.

Madam, your election as the first female Speaker of Parliament puts to rest the barrier of a glass ceiling for capable women in our country. With the recent additions of eminent female colleagues, such as Ms Indranee Rajah and Mrs Josephine Teo in the Cabinet, women are now much better represented in our country's senior leadership.

As ex-Chinese leader Mao Zedong once said, women hold up half the sky. Women who aspire to climb the corporate or political ladder now know that it is not impossible to reach the top, if that is what they wish.

Madam, I personally missed your company in the backbench when you were promoted in 2011 to become an office holder. I remember fondly an incident during our backbench days. Through exchange of views and notes across the seats, Member Christopher de Souza, your good self and I made a decision to not vote "yes" to the 2009 Human Organ Transplant Bill when the Whip was lifted. This was primarily due to our discomfort with some of the issues arising from payment to the donor.

As a new Member of Parliament, I learnt, from watching you, how an effective backbencher can skillfully prepare and present an argument without being unnecessarily harsh whilst making a stand according to one's conscience.

I will miss you now in the social services sector as you take on your new role as Speaker. In the last one year, you were making your presence felt as Minister of State in the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Thank you for responding both with speed and heart whenever I sought your help for the children and families who needed an extra leg-up in the charities we serve.

Please continue to support me with speed and heart and not ignore me when I raise my hand or try to catch your eye for an opportunity to continue to speak up for them in this House.

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Finally, Madam, a wish for you. I am confident that with your capability and communication talents, your eloquence, you will carry out your duties as Speaker with fairness and dignity. My special wish for you is this – that beneath that power suit that you now don as our Speaker, you will always remain the same Halimah Yacob whom we have all come to like, love and respect. Borrowing from the words of British Nobel laureate Rudyard Kipling in his poem "If", I hope that you will continue to "talk with crowds and keep your virtue" and "walk with kings, yet not lose the common touch". Walk with kings, yet not lose the common touch.

With that, our beloved Mdm Speaker, I pledge to you my utmost support.

Madam, before I end off, please allow me to express my appreciation of Mr Michael Palmer, your immediate predecessor.

When Michael Palmer was first elected as Speaker, those of us who were used to Speaker profiles who were far older, did not know what to expect of young Mr Palmer. He took over the Speakership at a time when a fair and steady hand was needed even more to manage the dynamics of a House with a mix of PAP Members of Parliament and a total of six elected Opposition Members of Parliament, three Non-Constituency Members of Parliament and nine Nominated Members of Parliament.

As time would tell, Mr Palmer quickly learnt the ropes and took to his Speaker duties well. I am sure many in the House would agree that Mr Palmer has discharged his duties as Speaker of the House with professionalism, fairness and confidence.

Personally, I was blessed to also serve the disadvantaged with Mr Palmer, outside this House. We briefly co-chaired a Disability Committee set up by Mayor Teo Ser Luck in his District. I recall that Michael was often patient and generous whenever we discussed individual appeals for help.

On other occasions, although I have never directly approached him for help in my volunteer work in the charities, he would direct donors to help the needy and disabled I serve. Mr Palmer, indeed, had used his influence to do good. I am sure I have the support of many in this House to register our appreciation for our ex-Speaker, Mr Michael Palmer. [Applause.]

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With that, let me end off and again extend my warmest congratulations for our new Mdm Speaker Halimah Yacob.

It has been a long wait from the day she entered politics in 2001, to the day she is elected to this significant position – more than 10 years. But as ex-British Prime Minister Winston Churchill once said, "Everyone has his day; and some days last longer than others."

Kakak Halimah, may your days as the Speaker of this House last a long, long time. Congratulations. [Applause]

Mdm Speaker, first, allow me to join the other Members of the House in extending my heartiest congratulations to you on your election as Speaker of this House. I stand here with much joy and pride, not just because the House has elected the best person for the job, but that the person is a mentor, an inspiration and, above all, a dear friend.

We entered this House as Members of Parliament together almost 12 years ago. In your years as a backbencher and a labour Member of Parliament, you had been a voice of reason – one that is gentle but firm in reminding Ministers of how important it is to listen to the people when formulating policies. You are not afraid to call a spade, a spade.

In your steadfast and focused approach to advance the cause of workers, women and children and the plight of low-income families, you have gained the respect and admiration of many, both locally and internationally.

I recall the many personal appeals you would send to MND, HDB and even the CDCs of families needing help with housing and other social assistance – each with your persistent reminder of how much we have to help these families. Your appointment prior to this, as the Minister of State for then MCYS (now MSF), was welcomed news and, with what you have achieved thus far, you will leave behind big shoes to fill.

Indeed, your election as Speaker of this House is probably one decision that Singaporeans of all backgrounds and race will unanimously support. The news comes with nothing less than accolades and unending praises – from acknowledging your credentials for the post, to breaking the glass ceiling for women in public office, to bringing yet another proud moment

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for the Malay/Muslim community.

You are, indeed, the epitome of the spirit of a true Singaporean – striving to do your best in whatever you do, never compromising on your core principles of honesty and integrity – and that regardless of background, with hard work and determination, one can succeed beyond one's imagination.

Over your many distinguished years in the labour movement and public service, you must have been accorded with every adjective there is to give – humble yet assertive, woman extraordinaire, passionate politician, champion of the underclass, and many more.

You have, indeed, broken the glass ceiling many times over – the first woman to be awarded the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year Award (Anugerah Jauhari) in 2001, the first Singaporean to serve on the International Labour Organization Board of Governors, and now, the first woman again, to be the Speaker of the Singapore Parliament. I am sure your years as Speaker will invite many more adjectives, including more "firsts", as you perform your role and carry out your duty with honour and distinction.

In the many years I have been privileged to know you, Mdm Speaker, I have always been touched by your sincerity and passion. It seems that the word "tired" is not in your vocabulary. Many have told me that it is hard to keep up with your energy, Mdm Speaker, but I am sure that we will all be energised by you. We look forward to your steady pair of hands in steering the debates in this House with impartiality and to bring this House to greater heights.

Mdm Speaker, please allow me to say a few words in Malay.

(In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mdm Speaker, ever since the news of your nomination as the Speaker of Parliament became widespread, the newspapers are filled with only words of accolades and congratulations, that were given to someone who best epitomises the words "Nothing is impossible." The Malay/Muslim community is now excited and overjoyed as well as thankful to Mdm Speaker for successfully, once again, breaking the psychological barrier and ascend to newer heights that were unimaginable before this.

Mdm Speaker is not only the icon for the Malay/Muslim community specifically, but also for Singapore in general. Mdm Speaker is an inspiration to many Malay women and men out there. Each worker turns to Mdm Speaker for

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guidance and motivation. Each mother seeks advice from Mdm Speaker. Each Malay girl has the aspiration to become someone like Mdm Speaker. Our Malay/Muslim community is very proud in seeing how Mdm Speaker has successfully proved that behind that tudung and gentle demeanour lies a reasonable mind, an indomitable spirit and an extraordinary leader. Mdm Speaker is truly the epitome of the true spirit of Singapore, which, irrespective of background, with hard work and dedication, one can achieve beyond his or her wildest dreams.

Over your many distinguished years in the labour movement and the public service, you must have been accorded with every adjective there is to give: humble but assertive, extraordinary lady, champion of the underclass, and many other accolades. Mdm Speaker has broken the glass ceiling several times: The first lady to be awarded the Berita Harian Achiever of the Year Award in 2001, the first Singaporean to serve on the International Labour Organization's Board and, now, the first woman again, to be Speaker of the Singapore Parliament. Surely, Mdm Halimah, there is no mountain that she cannot conquer, there is no ocean that she cannot cross. I am confident that there are many other mountains that Mdm Speaker will conquer in the future years. I am confident that Madam's time as the Speaker of Parliament will garner more words of praises and more "firsts", as Mdm Speaker performs her duties with honour and distinction.

(In English): Mdm Speaker, allow me to also extend my appreciation to your predecessor, Mr Michael Palmer, for his contribution as Speaker of this House. Although his tenure was short-lived, he did manage the proceedings of the House very well and allowed us to have good debates and make good progress.

Mdm Speaker, much lies ahead of us as a country. We have grown and seen many milestones since our independence. Today is, indeed, another milestone in our Singapore story that should be immortalised – when we see the ascension of a Malay girl from a humble family background who went to a Chinese girls' school, to one of the highest offices in the nation. It is truly a moment that we, as a country, must rejoice in. It is a moment, where meritocracy, as one of our cardinal principles, is illuminated – regardless of gender, ethnicity or attire – the best man or woman will be charged with the right job based on his or her own merits and capabilities.

With that, Mdm Speaker, may I extend again my heartiest congratulations to you and may you continue to be a source of inspiration for all of us in and

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out of this House. Thank you. [Applause.]

Mdm Speaker, may I take this opportunity to congratulate you on your election to this post – a post heavy in responsibility.

Mr Michael Palmer occupied the Chair up to end last year. We were from the 2006 cohort, and worked together as fellow Backbenchers to put forth and debate initiatives which we believed would benefit Singapore or the Eurasian community. I remember working out a proposal together with Michael and then-Minister George Yeo to broaden the definition of "Eurasian" so that first-generation children whose parents were of Asian-European lineage, would be recognised officially as Eurasian, if their parents so wanted. We raised this in Parliament, the Government accepted our proposal, and this helped to open the door to new blood, new life in the community – and it was welcomed by the Eurasian Association. We then worked together with Minister S Iswaran when he took over the portfolio of representing Eurasians in Cabinet. Therefore, the Eurasian community was sad to see Michael leave this House though many, including myself, have also expressed the hope that his family will see this through. It is a hope we hold in earnest.

Michael was an active volunteer on the Eurasian Association's Legal panel even before entering politics, and we hope that, with time and when he is ready to, Michael will return and continue to contribute to Singapore and the Eurasian community, and continue to make a real difference in people's lives.

Mdm Speaker, I did some arithmetic on your career. While you were part of the Prime Minister's Cabinet for 19 months, you were a Backbencher for 113 months or nine and a half years.

The arithmetic would suggest that a lot of goodwill from the Backbenchers – these seats, and their occupants – flow with you to your Chair now. I hope, and am also confident, that this will lead to you, Mdm Speaker, allowing fair, robust and effective debate between the Frontbench and the Backbench, as you displayed so vividly as a Backbencher, going multiple times to the microphone to make your point, effectively and courteously. We, and certainly I, strongly believe that you, Mdm Speaker, believe in effectiveness with courtesy. Therefore, we promise to be courteous, and it is our hope that you will allow us, Backbenchers, the room and the time to be effective.

On a more personal note, I remember your independence of thought when analysing and debating many pieces of legislation and I felt re-assured that you,

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along with Ms Denise Phua and myself, recorded our concern for the Human Organ Transplant (Amendment) Bill. We were few among a vast majority, but you were bold enough to make a stand to protect foreign workers' interests, and your position made the legislation tighter, more effective downstream.

Such, Mdm Speaker, was your effectiveness as a Backbencher. This was matched by the compassion with which you answered sensitive questions, as a Frontbencher, especially on issues close to your heart – early childhood and empowerment of the less fortunate in our care, in our midst.

Therefore, I am confident that your stewardship over parliamentary proceedings will be fair and just, balanced and effective, and wish, on behalf of fellow Members of this House, the very best to you in your new role in this esteemed office. [Applause]

Mdm Speaker, I would like to join the Members of the House to extend our heartfelt congratulations.

We closed the year of 2012 last month with a very heavy heart when our previous Speaker, Mr Michael Palmer, resigned and we have, indeed, lost a talent. Mr Palmer has always been very kind and encouraging to all of us, especially to the Nominated Members of Parliament, and, of course, we hope that you will also extend the same kindness and fairness to all of us.

It was a great start to the new year when we heard that you were nominated as the Speaker of Parliament. The sisters and brothers, whom you have worked closely with in the Labour Movement, were overjoyed and we were so very happy for you. Although we missed you in the Labour Movement, we hope that, with your new role, you can extend your experience or help to the Labour Movement, and we join all Singaporeans to rejoice in your election.

You have always been compassionate in reaching out to us women, to the unionists, as well as workers on the ground, be it the PMEs, the middle-income group or even the low-wage workers and, especially, the less privileged. You have also been very down-to-earth and fair in your dealings with the unionists and also with the management as well.

Mdm Speaker, you are renowned for your outstanding contributions to workers, and your reputation has spread way beyond Singapore, especially in the International Labour Organization (ILO). You were the first Singaporean to be elected to the ILO Governing Body. As spokesperson, your hard work in the

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ILO has led to the adoption by the 100th Session of the International Labour Conference in June 2011 of the historic Domestic Workers' Convention 2011, No 189.

I quote the ILO Director of the International Labour Standards Department, Dr Cleopatra Doumbia-Henry. She said, "You made a clarion call to the Conference for binding standards to provide decent work for domestic workers, thereby providing them with what they lack most: recognition as workers, and respect and dignity as human beings. Domestic workers all over the world owe you a debt of gratitude."

Indeed, Madam, you truly have done Singapore proud. We have seen over the years that you have demonstrated to all of us in the Labour Movement that charity always begins at home, and we witnessed how you have walked the talk and tirelessly attended to your call of duty while taking care of the needs of your family of five children and also your extended family, including your parents. I cannot agree with you more that it is great to stay in our HDB flats, and I, for one, love my HDB flat. However, should you need to move out of your flat one day, Madam, people will understand.

Today, I am deeply honoured and count it a blessing to be here in this House to witness this historical moment that we now have the first woman Speaker in Parliament and that clearly you have the Labour Movement DNA in you. Madam, although you are now the Speaker of Parliament, we look forward to you to continue to stay true to your calling to be fair and just to help the weak and the less privileged in Singapore, to be the voice of conscience for our people, and that you will not only be known as the first woman Speaker of this House but truly an inspiring people's Speaker. And, with that, I congratulate you, Madam, and wish you the very best in your new journey. Thank you. [Applause.]

When I joined the NTUC in 2005, I learnt of the tireless efforts of many outstanding union leaders and their sterling contributions to tripartism in Singapore. They were the shining stars whom younger unionists like me look up to, and you, Mdm Speaker, were among those who shone the brightest.

One of your biggest contributions to the Labour Movement was your expertise in labour legislation, which you built up through your intense focus on championing the rights of workers ever since you joined the NTUC in 1978. Over the years, Mdm Halimah became the "go-to" person for NTUC's affiliated unions on matters of the law. You represented them at the Industrial Arbitration

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Court on a wide range of cases, including disputes on working hours, annual increments, bonuses and retrenchment benefits.

For your legal opponents, it must have been quite daunting to be up against your formidable knowledge of labour law, never mind your reputation for dogged persistence. In a landmark 2009 case, your arguments helped to confirm the important principle that a union's right to engage in collective bargaining is enshrined in the law and cannot be ignored by employers. It was, and still is, no exaggeration to refer to you as "a walking dictionary of labour law".

Kakak, you are also widely respected as a champion for women. You started the iconic Back-to-Work Women programme, and spoke out passionately for more support to help women who had taken time out to care for young families to re-enter the workforce. You stood up for single mothers and started the "We Care for U" programme to provide emotional and practical support to them, placing strong emphasis on their children's education. Needless to say, you helped to nurture many women union leaders by guiding and mentoring them.

Colleagues, in the international labour movement, Mdm Halimah is well-known and well-respected as an advocate of workers' interests. Singapore's unique brand of tripartism has drawn its share of criticisms over the years. However, through the active representation of our union leaders like Mdm Halimah, we have won over our detractors.

There is no one at the International Labour Organization (ILO) who does not know her. In recognition of her steadfast commitment to the cause of the ILO, she was elected as the Workers' Vice-Chairperson of the Standards Committee of the International Labour Conference (ILC) and she was elected on four separate occasions, not just once. Significantly, she was elected as the Workers' Spokesperson for two important ILC Committees – on Human Resources Development and Training in 2003 and 2004, and on Domestic Workers, when it was first formed in 2010.

Even after Mdm Halimah was appointed Minister of State, she offered to return to the ILC to finish the challenging task she had started in 2010 to have the ILO adopt a new Convention and Recommendation aimed at improving the working conditions of domestic workers worldwide. She was a key contributor to the successful adoption of this new landmark standard in 2011, a standard that was first raised at the ILC in 1948 but never materialised. Given her high standing, I am certain she will be very valuable to the NTUC should it decide to

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appoint her in an advisory role.

My esteemed colleagues, Mdm Halimah deserves all the accolades you have heard or read about her. There can be no doubt in anyone's mind that she is here on her own merit, and not because of her gender, race or connections. In my humble opinion, her election as Singapore's ninth Speaker of Parliament is nothing less than an inspired choice of the highest order. Not only does she have the personal qualities to discharge the duties of Speaker with competence and dignity, she embodies the courage and conviction of Singaporeans who rise above their circumstances.

In doing so, she bears true testimony to the system of meritocracy that has served us so well. She is a reminder to all of us in the House of our shared purpose, and, that is, to keep improving the lives of our fellow Singaporeans so that each citizen has the opportunity to fulfil his or her highest potential. Please join me in congratulating our new Speaker, Mdm Halimah Yacob.[Applause]

Hon Members, I would first like to thank Ms Denise Phua and Mr Christopher de Souza for proposing and supporting my election as the Speaker of the House. I would also like to thank the Leader of the House, Dr Maliki, Ms Mary Liew and Mrs Josephine Teo for their kind words of support and encouragement. Let me also take this opportunity to thank everyone, both inside and outside this House, for your very kind thoughtful messages and well wishes. I have received a lot of support from ordinary Singaporeans, that I feel so humbled and all the more compelled to do the best that I can to uphold the dignity and respect of this august body. I will discharge my functions fairly and impartially, and uphold the best traditions of this House.

In the midst of all the well wishes, quite a number had also expressed their concern that, once elected as Speaker, I will not be able to raise issues affecting ordinary Singaporeans. The Speaker of the House, as the presiding officer of Parliament, has to remain neutral and independent at all times, and this is the reason why the Speaker cannot take part in the debates. However, this does not prevent me from raising your concerns through other channels or giving my views on policies that affect Singaporeans' lives. I am also heartened by our Prime Minister's statement that he would look at ways to involve me in social issues, so that I could continue to contribute in ways that have made my work thus far so fulfilling, so long as this is compatible with the Speaker's position.

Hon Members, you have bestowed upon me this great honour of being the Speaker of the House. I am aware of the huge demands of this Office and the

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heavy responsibilities of this office, and the duties that have been placed upon me. I am confident that I will have your support and cooperation in the discharge of these duties and in the conduct of proceedings in this House. You will agree with me that we owe a duty to the people of Singapore who have placed us in this House to act in their best interest. Hon Members may have different views, and I expect the debate to be vigorous. I believe that rigorous examination of policies and laws will no doubt ensure greater clarity, contribute to stronger policy making and better reflect the needs of our society. As the guardian of parliamentary privileges, I expect Members to speak freely but I also urge you to respect these privileges accorded to us as Members of Parliament. We have a duty to ensure the decorum and uphold the dignity and honour of this House.

Let me also say a few words about my predecessor, Mr Michael Palmer. Although Mr Palmer's stint as Speaker was short, you will agree with me – and many have already echoed earlier on – that he has discharged his duties in this House with great distinction and honour, and we must thank him for his service. He was a good Speaker, and I have taken note of the many requests made earlier that I should be as kind to you in my dealings as he was.

Hon Members, regardless of where we stand on issues, we are all joined by only one purpose, and, that is, to serve the people of Singapore. This is a goal that we are duty-bound to fulfill. It is much higher than ourselves or our own individual interests. The next few years will be critical times for us. Globally, the world is facing a lot of challenges, and the issue for us is how to remain economically competitive so that our people can continue to benefit from our growth. At home, an ageing population, a declining fertility rate, a widening income gap and concerns over social mobility, will no doubt occupy our minds. We all have a role to play in building a truly inclusive society. As we go through each session of this Parliament, let us be reminded by what the great novelist and poet, Robert Louis Stevenson said, "Don't judge each day by the harvest that you reap, but by the seeds that you plant." On this note, hon Members, I thank you. [Applause]

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1 Mr Arthur Fong asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs whether any damage has been caused to bilateral ties between China and Singapore by the incident of the illegal strikes of the SMRT Chinese drivers.

Mdm Speaker, the actions by some of the SMRT drivers from China have been and are being dealt with in accordance with our laws. Our laws apply equally to all Singaporeans and foreigners residing in Singapore. So, we see this strictly as a matter of law enforcement and do not expect the incident to affect relations between Singapore and China.

2 Dr Lim Wee Kiak asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs what are the implications for Singapore in respect of the outcome of the recent US presidential election as well as the leadership renewal in China.

Mdm Speaker, Dr Lim asked about the implications for Singapore in respect of the outcome of the recent US Presidential Election as well as the leadership renewal in China. First, if I may look at the US. Singapore and the US have consistently enjoyed good relations through successive Administrations. The relationship is anchored by strong cooperation. We have many areas of common interests across a range of issues. The institutionalisation of the US-Singapore Strategic Partnership Dialogue in 2012 is an example of the ever-strengthening bilateral links. Both sides continue to engage each other and carry out high-level exchanges to maintain the good personal relationships that already exist at several levels. And we will continue to further broaden and deepen the current state of good bilateral relationships.

The US' continued presence in Asia has contributed to the region's prosperity and security. One strength of the US' Asia-Pacific strategy over the last 30 years has been that it is essentially bipartisan and remaining steady and consistent through successive Administrations. With President Obama's re-

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election, we can expect continuity on US' policy on Asia and the President's first overseas visit after re-election was to our region, amongst others to attend the Seventh East Asia Summit and the Fourth ASEAN-US Leaders Meeting. That sent a strong signal of his Administration's continued commitment to this region. We hope that the new Secretary of State will also make an early visit to the region and participate in ASEAN meetings.

Now, looking at China, we enjoy a close co-operative relationship with China and we do not expect the relationship to be affected by the leadership transition. Indeed, we expect it to be strong. Many new Chinese leaders are already familiar with Singapore and our leaders. Our relations are built on a foundation of strong, regular institutional links, for example, the Joint Council for Bilateral Co-operation, and we have common interests on a wide range of issues. The strength of our relationship is evidenced by the frequent high-level exchanges and close co-operation on several bilateral projects, for example, the Suzhou Industrial Park and the Tianjin Eco-city, and others at the provincial level, for example, the Guangzhou Knowledge City, as well as the Provincial Councils with provinces like Jiangsu and Sichuan. The business-to-business as well as people-to-people links are also robust. We look forward to continue working well with the new Chinese leaders to further strengthen ties between the two countries.

Madam, the Maritime disputes in the South China Sea have become increasingly contentious and tense. Adding to the complexity is the growing Sino-US competition for influence in this region. I would like to ask the Minister two supplementary questions, given Singapore's interest in ensuring freedom of navigation and in preserving the peace and stability of our region. First, can I ask the Minister for his assessment of how the leadership transitions in both the US and China, and the shifting domestic politics in both these countries, will affect the fundamental positions of the countries on the South China Sea dispute and the dynamics of the dispute? Second, can I ask the Minister if he is concerned that with the growing US-China competition in this region, divisions within ASEAN may widen and call into question the aspirations for centrality in the region?

First, on the leadership changes and the shifting balances as well as the growing nationalism within the countries, and how that might impact on the region. I think, fundamentally, we must expect all countries to act in their own interest. That must be so for big powers and the way Singapore has put the message across is that peace and prosperity in this region for the last 50 years have been maintained by a number of principles, but, primarily, by making sure that the region is stable. And stability has been

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brought about by a strong American presence as well as an acceptance by everyone that open trade, free trade and building up linkages, creating an ASEAN architecture and regional architecture on that base, have been the fundamentals of prosperity. And that should continue. That is in America's interest, as well as in China's interest – that we have a strong and credible ASEAN and that we have freedom of navigation across both sides. We are putting forward a number of ideas for that, for example, encouraging the claimant countries, the various countries which are claiming in the South China Sea, to agree to a Code of Conduct that everyone can be a party to.

The issues relating to sovereignty – who owns what – are not likely to be resolved in our lifetimes. So, really, the approach is to try and put that on the back burner, and agree on a way in which countries can relate to each other and co-operate with each other, and what can be done and what cannot be done. That would preserve peace. And we welcome the growth of China. It has been an unmitigated positive for all of Asia. We have over $50 billion invested. China's growth is a continued fundamental for our own success and for the region's success. US and China would have to find a way of dealing with each other that does not affect the peace in this region. And we believe that, broadly, that will be achieved.

As regards specifically on ASEAN, there would always be a temptation by one country or another to see if they can get closer to some ASEAN countries. Again, we must expect all major countries to act in their own interest, but we have made the point quite forcefully that a united ASEAN better serves the interests of the major powers. Because ASEAN, with 600 million people and growth at about somewhere around 5% or so, and with the regional economy close to US$2 trillion, is poised for take-off. If our ASEAN vision comes through and the connectivity comes through, we will have roads, railroads, better connections, and the economies will become intermeshed. As a result of which it provides tremendous opportunities for the US, Japan and China. So, a united, prosperous, successful ASEAN is in everyone's interest. A divided ASEAN is in no one's interest. And that is the message that Singapore continues to give.

I would like to thank the Minister for Foreign Affairs for this reply. I would like to ask the Minister: what are the implications of the changes in the Obama Administration leadership team, particularly the Secretary of State, as well as the Defence Secretary who is somebody who has served in the Vietnam war? Does he sense that there will be a change in terms of the outlook towards ASEAN? What are the implications to the new leadership in China and how does that impact Singapore on the

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whole?

At this stage, of course, we do not have a new Secretary of State or Secretary of Defence. Nominations have been made. If those nominations go through, we have reasons to believe that the American policy towards Southeast Asia and East Asia will continue to be what it has been so far. The policy the last time round was put together by the Administration together with the State department. As I said earlier, these policies are based on national interests, which do not vary from Administration to Administration, and US policy towards Asia has been essentially bipartisan, so we expect that that will continue.

As regards the dynamics of the US relationship with China with new leadership in both countries, as the Member might know, I made a major speech in Turkey last week, or the week before, and our own assessment is that the US and China now have many touch-points, many bilateral routes of engagement, and they understand the need to accommodate each other and each other's interests and work out a modus vivendi that would not endanger peace.

There are certainly risks. We see in newspaper reports of tensions rising or potential clashes and so on, so let us not underestimate the risks. In fact, over the last few years, the risks have grown. But, fundamentally, we believe that it is in both their interests and our interests that they come to some accommodation. Whether they will indeed do so, whether everything will be peaceful, I cannot assure you. If that does not happen and tensions rise, it can be pretty severe for the region and for us. Regular incidents of naval craft or aircraft confronting each other, of course, impact on how we view the situation.

Thank you, Mdm Speaker. Thank you to the Minister for Foreign Affairs for the insights into the changes in both the US and China. I would like to ask a bit more explicitly, does this mean that the relationship that Singapore has maintained with both those powers will continue to be maintained in the way of balance and emphasis, or does the Minister expect the changes or the relationships to be evolved going forward, shifting the balance between how we engage both the US and China?

The relative weight of China is growing. I am not one of those who believe that the US is in permanent decline. Nevertheless, the respective levels of influence, there will be a relative shift. And Singapore's position has consistently been to be good friends of both. That is in our interest, and that will continue to be in our interest. Would that be a challenge-free

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approach? It really depends on how the state of relationships between US and China develops. It could develop in a way that makes it challenging for all of us who are friends with both countries, and we will just have to adapt to that.

Mr David Ong, next question, please.

3 Mr David Ong asked the Minister for National Development in view of the recent sale of an executive condominium (EC) penthouse for $1.61 million in Yishun, what is HDB's rationale for the building of executive condominiums (ECs) and whether EC prices are becoming unaffordable for Singaporeans earning less than a household income of $12,000.

4 Mr Lim Biow Chuan asked the Minister for National Development whether the Government will consider (i) reviewing the policy intent for having Executive Condominiums (ECs); and (ii) imposing restrictions on developers of ECs to prevent the sale of flat units which are excessively large or which are too highly priced.

5 Ms Irene Ng Phek Hoong asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the recent prices of the Executive Condominiums (ECs), including a penthouse which eclipsed the $2 million mark, subverts the purpose of the Government-subsidised EC housing to cater to the "sandwich class"; and (b) whether tighter measures should be put in place to regulate the EC market, such as a clause in the EC contract to prevent developers from building large penthouses and over-pricing units.

6 Mr Ang Wei Neng asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the Executive Condominium (EC) housing scheme has met the objective of providing affordable quality housing to households with a monthly income of between $10,000 to $12,000; (b) what is the estimated amount of Government subsidy per EC unit, including land cost subsidy; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider tweaking the EC housing scheme to maintain the intent of the EC housing scheme.

7 Ms Foo Mee Har asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether it is necessary to take further measures to maintain the principles on which Executive Condominiums (ECs) are built and priced; and (b) how the

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Ministry can ensure provision of affordable housing through the Executive Condominium Housing Scheme.

8 Mr Zaqy Mohamad asked the Minister for National Development (a) whether the recent prices of Executive Condominiums (ECs) are making them less accessible to those in the targeted income group; (b) whether there are similar trends between EC prices and market prices of private condominiums; (c) what measures will the Ministry consider if the principles of EC sales are not adhered to and if the prices of ECs are out of reach for interested buyers, especially those with limited options; and (d) whether the higher EC prices have resulted in any increase in Government subsidies to make new ECs more affordable to interested buyers, especially first-timers.

Mdm Speaker, may I have your permission to take six questions – Question Nos 3 to 8 – together, please?

Yes, please.

The Executive Condominium (EC) Housing Scheme serves a useful purpose of meeting the aspirations of higher income Singaporeans to own private housing in an affordable way. This is done by imposing on EC buyers certain initial eligibility and ownership restrictions which are similar to those for subsidised HDB flats. As a result of these restrictions, EC developers are able to secure the land cheaper than otherwise. The land cost savings are very substantial, sometimes up to 40%. With further assistance from the CPF Housing Grant, many citizen households have gained access to private condominiums through the EC Scheme.

However, some developers have taken to building super-sized ECs and, in some instances, also by taking advantage of some URA planning rules. Last week, we announced two measures to correct this. First, we now impose a size cap of 160 square metres for each EC unit. Second, we now count Private Enclosed Spaces (PES) and roof terraces as gross floor area (GFA), which will be subject to Development Charge or Differential Premium. These GFA cannot exceed 10% of the Master Plan stipulated gross plot ratio.

Related to this is the issue of dual-key ECs. We have allowed such design innovation as it supports multi-generational families by offering privacy. However, the concept has now been taken advantage of by some buyers, who buy dual-key units for immediate rental yield. To address this, we now require

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buyers of dual-key EC units to be multi-generational families.

In addition, we have also announced a fourth measure to delay EC developer sales. For new EC land sales, developers will only be allowed to launch units for sale 15 months from the date of award of the sites, or after physical completion of foundation works, whichever is earlier. This should help moderate EC land bids, as bidders will now have to take a longer term view of the property market and can no longer pass on such market risks to EC buyers soon after securing the land.

Taken together, this package of four measures should return ECs to their original intent, and ensure developers build ECs to benefit the intended target buyers.

Mdm Speaker, I thank the Minister for the clarification. In my Parliamentary Question I also asked about the subsidies given for ECs. I understand that ECs are subsidised. I have three supplementary questions: (1) How has it impacted Government subsidies in light of the run-away EC prices?; (2) Was this within the subsidies that the Government budgeted for; that is, what has been spent; and (3) How do we protect our interest such that developers do not profit from Government subsidies?

Madam, that is why we introduced the four measures that will protect our interest and make sure the scheme returns to its original spirit.

Madam, if I may ask the Minister, in view of the household income cap of $12,000, would MND also consider a price cap for ECs such that buyers will not be unduly stretched financially? Perhaps, this will also ensure that developers do not build opulent or ostentatious ECs and try to keep them affordable for Singaporeans.

Madam, the selling price of ECs will very much depend on the size of the EC. By capping the size of the EC, I think, automatically, the price will become more sober.

Madam, I would like to ask the Minister, in view of the popularity of the dual-key units in EC, would the Minister consider reintroducing the multi-generational new BTO flats for those who have larger

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families and cannot afford ECs?

Madam, I think the huge popularity of dual-key units is largely among buyers who are not really multi-generational families. They were taking advantage of this planning rule which we have now fixed.

Madam, I have two supplementary questions: one is whether official approval has been sought by the developers when they marketed the expensive ECs, like the now infamous $2 million EC. Second, if official approval has been sought and granted by the Ministry, would it be a violation of the good intent and spirit of the EC programme? And why was the approval given by the Ministry?

Madam, all developments are subject to planning approval, and the same applies to ECs. Those earlier plans were approved because those were the planning rules at that point in time. But as soon as we realised that the planning rules were being taken advantage of, we fixed them, and I think such deviations should soon be history.

Madam, I thank the Minister for his answer. Do the recent prices for ECs not suggest that those purchasing can afford to purchase private property? And, if so, how can the Government ensure that even with the new rules, that ECs are only intended for those that the scheme is designed to benefit? If they cannot ensure that, should it even continue with the EC scheme?

Madam, I have expressed an opinion on ECs before. It is really a wonderful scheme. It protects middle income Singaporeans from competition and ensures a very market-friendly way of allowing them to buy condominiums at affordable prices. If I may give an analogy – it is like offering you a Lexus at Corolla price, but only Singaporeans have this privilege of doing so and they know that, in due course, the price will go up to Lexus and above Lexus level. So, I think it is a very good scheme. We should try to ensure its continuance because it is relevant. As to the abuse or it being taken advantage of by families who can actually afford private properties coming in to take up ECs, such buyers were very much encouraged by these huge EC units, and caused this phenomenon. Even though we have fixed this rule, I will continue to be vigilant. If, the abuse continues, then we may have to think of other ways of fixing this problem.

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Mdm Speaker, I would like to inform the Minister that I have residents who requested for the reintroduction of these multi-generational flats because they could not afford to buy from the open market. In fact, I think that there is demand because I have residents who came to appeal for it.

I thank the Member for the feedback. We will take a look.

9 Mr Teo Siong Seng asked the Minister for Defence whether his Ministry provides adequate compensation for the long-term medical expenses and related costs of living for navy servicemen who are critically injured while on duty.

Mdm Speaker, first, let me thank the Member for his concern over the care and rehabilitation of our injured servicemen. Unfortunately, every military force will encounter death and disability among its servicemen. It is, therefore, important that our compensation and welfare frameworks provide the necessary assistance and support to affected servicemen and their families. Let me explain our compensation and welfare frameworks.

First, MINDEF will pay for all medical expenses for treatment of injured servicemen at Government and restructured hospitals or clinics. This includes the costs of medical supplies and equipment, counselling and psychiatric care for as long as required by the servicemen.

Second, injured servicemen will receive lump sum compensation based on the degree of permanent disability sustained. The amount is doubled for disabilities that resulted during military training or operations. Additional amounts are also provided to servicemen who have total permanent disability for their constant care.

Third, the SAF will aim to re-deploy disabled servicemen to vocations that fit their abilities.

Fourthly, the SAF Benevolent Fund provides discretionary amounts in welfare support to our injured servicemen and their families. For example, a

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serviceman with total permanent disability will receive a one-off grant, as well as a monthly allowance for at least three years.

In summary, MINDEF has frameworks in place to provide financial compensation and welfare support for disabled servicemen to take care of their healthcare, long-term rehabilitation and daily needs, as well as assist their families financially. The amounts are significantly higher than that disbursed under the Work Injury Compensation Act and the civil courts.

Some Members will know that ME2 Jason Chee, a Navy serviceman who was seriously injured as a result of an incident on 10 December last year. ME2 Jason Chee will receive full support from the various schemes that I have talked about. Following the incident, we have witnessed many acts of compassion by fellow Singaporeans. Many have expressed condolences, donated blood and monetary contributions to help in the long-term care of ME2 Chee and his family. I am deeply touched and thankful for this outpouring of public support for our servicemen. This strong public support for our injured servicemen will go a long way in strengthening their resolve and the resolve of our armed forces as they do their duty in defending Singapore.

I thank the Minister for the explanation. I believe that the investigations showed that the injury was actually due to the failure of the winch mechanism. So, would this affect the compensation?

I must first qualify that investigations have not been completed and there are a number of causes. One of the preliminary findings is that there were some failures in that, but there were other causes. But I can say that ME2 Jason Chee's injury was due to service and he will be compensated on that basis.

Mdm Speaker, I would like to ask the Minister, when was the last time this compensation package was reviewed. Will the SAF be prepared again to review the compensation package to servicemen who are injured?

Madam, I understand the Member's concerns. I would say that it is not fixed. The base layer is compatible with what we have for the workmen's compensation. So, it was adopted based on that, and even the workmen's compensation moves. But over and above that, as I said, we have additional amounts. So, if it is due to service, the amounts are doubled. On top

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of that, we have additional grants and financial and compensation schemes. So, I would say that, in general, it is much more generous than the base layer. But, obviously, we do review it from time to time.

Thank you, Mdm Speaker, one supplementary question for the Minister. Does this compensation scheme extend equally to both serving full-time NSmen as well as regulars? And has there been feedback from families or the servicemen themselves as to the extent of the compensation?

Madam, yes, it extends to all NSmen and we have a structure in which there is an appeal board. So, if families and servicemen who are affected have queries about the amount, this compensation appeal board will listen to their case.

10 Asst Prof Tan Kheng Boon Eugene asked the Minister for Defence whether training safety and health issues can be included as a distinct key performance indicator in a commander's annual performance appraisal in the Singapore Armed Forces and in the evaluation process of units for the annual SAF Best Unit and Best NS Unit competitions.

Madam, the safety and health of our soldiers are of utmost importance to the SAF. The SAF holds our commanders to high standards of safety and health in their units. The Member has asked for the annual performance scheme, and I will tell him that the appraisal of our commanders includes an assessment of how well their units meet standards in safety and health. Those who uphold high standards are duly recognised. If commanders or their units are found to have unsatisfactory safety or health standards, they not only receive poor performance appraisals, but it is something docked against them. Commanders who flout safety rules or allow unsafe practices are also dealt with seriously.

The annual Best Unit Competition has always assessed units in the areas of safety and health. In this regard, our units are audited annually on training safety, occupational safety and health, and motor-transport safety. So, to be able to participate in the Best Unit Competition, units must achieve a high safety

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score of at least 90%. This applies to both active and NS units.

Beyond using safety as a key performance indicator, for our commanders and our units, we have always emphasised the importance of a strong safety culture. Units are encouraged to report near-misses, unsafe practices and safety breaches. Commanders have been reminded, and are reminded often, that safety is a command responsibility.

Madam, I thank the Minister for his reply, especially his assurance that safety and health issues are taken seriously by MINDEF. But what I fail to understand is that, despite all these measures, we have training accidents which are fairly severe in nature. Is it a result of a failure in the officers and men and women of the SAF to internalise this training safety and health culture? Or, could it be that issues, such as training safety and health, although being measured, are perhaps not being measured enough such that the commanders and officers tend not to pay sufficient attention? I think there is concern about the frequency and extent of service injuries in recent times.

Mdm Speaker, MINDEF obviously shares those concerns. Every time an incident happens, we have to review the system and make sure that it is robust. On the other hand, we have to benchmark ourselves in terms of the number of injuries and deaths, against something that we can objectively measure. I would say that, as a general benchmark, our rates are fairly low, whether it is for the various services or across the board. Having said that, we are always striving for "nil" incidents. Each time something happens, we will just have to continue to strengthen the system. Do the recent incidents reflect an attitude? This is certainly something that we do not want to happen and that is why we have taken certain steps, as I have made known in my Ministerial Statement the last time Parliament sat, about how we are stepping up the safety culture and we will continue to monitor this very carefully.

11 Mr Sitoh Yih Pin asked whether the decision not to publish the top PSLE scorers or the primary schools with the top PSLE scores is a temporary measure and whether there are broader policy reasons behind the decision.

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12 Mr R Dhinakaran asked what factors tipped the balance in favour of the Ministry's decision not to name the top scorers for the 2012 PSLE examinations.

Mdm Speaker, may I have your permission to take Question Nos 11 and 12 together?

Yes, please.

MOE has reviewed and decided to stop the practice of releasing the names of the top Primary School Leaving Examination (PSLE) scorers. Instead, MOE provided the media with a list of students from various schools who have performed well in both academic and non-academic aspects and/or have shown resilience and determination in overcoming the odds to excel in their education. The change is aimed at recognising students for their holistic development and all-round excellence, and not just their academic performance only.

Education is a long journey. The PSLE marks the conclusion of one stage of a child's learning journey and the beginning of another. It is important to help our students to develop the disposition to embark on this long journey. We want to encourage them to persevere, to pursue learning along appropriate pathways and help them to succeed in each milestone. We hope parents will join us to encourage their children to develop a love for learning and become life-long learners.

The decision to stop releasing the list of top scorers is not to address PSLE stress per se or to move away from merit. It is to signal and align our practices with the emphasis on holistic development and all-round excellence.

Mdm Speaker, I thank the Minister for the reply. The move to stop publishing the top PSLE scores and scorers is a good one. At the same time, will the Ministry stop publishing the range of aggregate scores that the Secondary 1 cohort students obtain, as they gain admission into each Secondary school, as is currently available on the School Information Services website?

Mdm Speaker, I thank the Member for her support. Today, the entry scores provide some indication or a guide to parents in terms of the schools that their children can apply to. But, as in all measures, we will

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be looking at it together with other issues that are relevant to the posting of Secondary school students.

13 Mr Baey Yam Keng asked the Minister for Communications and Information with regard to the recent hacking of the website of the People's Association and 16 related sites (a) whether more information about the hackers has been found; (b) whether there is any leakage of personal information of visitors to the affected websites; (c) what risks did visitors to the websites face; and (d) what actions have been taken to enhance cyber security of Government websites.

Madam, let me begin by congratulating you on your election as Speaker of Parliament. Madam, I would like to assure the Member that the Government takes a serious view of security breaches and remains vigilant to cyber security threats. MCI and the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) work closely with Government agencies to put in place stringent security measures to secure our Government websites. These measures include establishing security policies, standards and guidelines, conducting regular security tests, as well as scans for vulnerabilities. Government agencies are also required to conduct security reviews and audits periodically to ensure compliance with the security policies and standards. At the whole-of-Government level, the Cyber Watch Centre (CWC) monitors Government websites and provides timely alerts when intrusions are detected. In the event of a security incident, IDA's Government IT Security Incident Response (GITSIR) team coordinates with agencies to perform investigations and supports agencies' response to the incident.

On the recent defacement of the People's Association's websites, the Member has asked whether more information about the hackers has been found. Police investigations for the case are currently ongoing. While the defaced websites carried the signature of the "HighTech Brazil HackTeam", a known hacking group that targets government and private websites around the world, the actual identity of the perpetrators has yet to be established. Preliminary investigations have traced the hacking activities to Internet Protocol addresses in foreign countries, and the Police have already requested

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assistance from their foreign counterparts as part of their investigations.

The Member has also asked whether the personal information of visitors was compromised and whether visitors faced any risks visiting the affected websites during that period. The affected websites provide general information about the People's Association and its programmes, and the websites were not used to carry out online transactions other than allowing the public to submit online feedback. Based on preliminary findings, there was no evidence of any leakage of visitors' personal information. The affected websites were taken offline upon detection of the website defacement and visitors were not exposed to further risks.

IDA has worked with the People's Association to quickly fix the vulnerability in a software tool used by one of the affected websites to gain access to the system. The affected websites were restored progressively between 4 December 2012 and 7 December 2012 with enhanced security measures implemented. Following the incident, IDA notified all Government agencies about the software vulnerability and is working with them to check that the same vulnerability does not exist elsewhere. No other similar hacking attempts were detected.

Madam, my Ministry and IDA will continue to work closely with the Government agencies to strengthen the security of our websites. Where needed, additional security safeguards and risk mitigating measures would be put in place to ensure the integrity of our websites, taking into account new technologies and risks.

Thank you, Madam. I would like to ask Minister: given this recent attack, how would the parameters or guidelines for cyber-security for Government websites and the parameters for periodic reviews be enhanced to prevent future attacks? The second question is: given the prevalent use of SingPass for many of the Government websites, how is the Government going to ensure the security of such transactions for our citizens?

Madam, I would like to assure the Member and the House that there is a system in place which monitors Government websites on a continual basis. It is really to ensure that if there is a detection of an incident, we will move in very rapidly. Meanwhile, there are policies and guidelines in which we have encouraged all agencies dealing with highly sensitive data or websites to put in place proper systems. They are being audited, not only by the IDA, but they are expected to be audited on their own

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through acquiring expertise from the private sector. Most importantly, the regular reviews by the team within IDA and Government help us to ensure that we learn better and, at the same time, put in place new measures.