预算辩论 · 2026-03-05 · 第 15 届国会
2026文化社区及青年部供给委员会辩论：马来穆斯林社群的AI经济准备
MCCY Committee of Supply 2026 — Preparing Malay/Muslim Community for AI Economy
MCCY供给委员会辩论中，多名马来族议员聚焦社群在AI经济中的准备度。议员Saktiandi Supaat提出AI转型战略必须确保儿童和青年不仅会使用技术，还能创造价值。他举例一名中四学生对AI感兴趣但缺乏深入理解。议员Wan Rizal关注青年从高等教育到AI驱动就业市场的过渡。讨论提到国家AI委员会、国家AI使命和AI Champions计划为马来穆斯林企业带来新机遇，但质问：社群是否准备好迈入这个新世界？
关键要点
- • AI转型需确保青年能创造价值而非仅消费技术
- • 马来穆斯林企业需把握国家AI使命机遇
- • 青年从教育到AI就业市场的过渡支持
- • 社群AI准备度是关键问题
通过国家AI计划支持各族群参与AI经济
AI包容性成为族群政策议题
参与人员（6）
完整译文（中文）
Hansard 英文原文译文 · 翻译日期：2026-05-02
主席：文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）X组负责人。亚历克斯·严先生。
下午12时53分
构建“我们优先”的国家认同
亚历克斯·严先生（马西岭-裕廊西）：主席，我提议，“将预算中X组的总拨款减少100元。”
在较为平静的时期，关于国家认同的讨论可能显得哲学化，甚至抽象。但我们今天显然不处于平静时期。
我们周围的世界非常动荡。中东地区再次爆发战争。大国在各地区和供应链中争夺影响力。战略竞争日益激烈。离我们较近的地区，区域紧张局势也时有爆发。
对于像我们这样的小型开放国家来说，这些发展不是遥远的新闻头条。它们提醒我们全球环境正变得更加分裂和不确定。
在这样的世界中，国家韧性不能仅仅依赖经济实力或军事能力。它还必须依赖一种不那么显眼但同样重要的东西，那就是社会信任——公民在关键时刻会团结一致的信心。
这就是我们谈论“我们优先”社会时的核心含义。
但今天构建这样的社会并非易事。新加坡人理所当然地关注基本生活问题。家庭担忧生活成本。父母关心子女的未来。工人们正在适应技术变革和经济不确定性。
在快节奏且要求高的社会中，人们自然首先关注自己的家庭。然而，如果每个人都只顾自己，维系国家的无形纽带将会松散。
“我们优先”的国家认同不能仅靠口号建立。不能仅依赖宣传活动或偶尔的事件。它必须在日常生活中体验，并通过习惯加以强化。
新加坡起点较高。政策研究所（IPS）的调查持续显示我们公共机构的信任度相对较高。社区参与和志愿服务多年来稳步增长。
但信任不是静态资产，必须不断更新。
国际比较或许对我们有启示。在许多北欧社会，超过60%至70%的公民表示信任不认识的人。这是全球社会信任度最高的水平之一。
这种信任当然不是偶然产生的。它是鼓励公民积极参与社区生活的社会规范和制度的产物。
以丹麦为例，有一种根深蒂固的传统称为“föreningsliv”。它指的是一种充满活力的协会文化，公民组织体育俱乐部、文化团体和志愿活动。许多组织不是由专业人士运营，而是由普通公民管理。
这些协会在年龄、职业和背景之间建立横向联系，创造维系信任的社会网络。
在荷兰，有“gezelligheid”这一概念。这个词没有完美的英文翻译，但它表达了一种温暖、团结和共同归属感。它反映了社区生活的重要性，而不仅仅是个体追求个人目标的集合。
在日本，“养乐多女士”扮演着重要的社会安全网角色，保持超级老龄化社会的联系。
这些例子提醒我们，社会凝聚力不是自动形成的。它是通过日常实践有意识地培养的。因此，我们必须从年轻人开始。学校是学生为生活做准备的地方，也是公民本能形成的场所。让学生接触社会不同群体的项目可以加深同理心和共同责任感。
在工作场所，许多新加坡人花费大量时间工作。雇主因此有机会营造跨背景、国籍和技能合作的环境，并通过企业志愿服务帮助员工在专业角色之外做出贡献。
在我们的邻里中，这些是“我们优先”本能最直接的滋养环境。
新加坡的住房模式长期以来是社会凝聚力的一个安静但强大的引擎。但随着生活方式的变化，我们需要加强面对面交流，防止邻居变成陌生人。促进居民聚集的举措有助于恢复彼此熟悉感。
我们必须认识到，我们的大部分国家对话发生在网络上。
数字平台拥有极大的传播力，但也放大了愤怒、错误信息和极化。因此，对于像我们这样多元文化的社会，培养数字公民意识同样至关重要。我们的网络空间必须反映与现实空间相同的责任感和相互尊重的价值观。
我们还必须继续弥合代际和社会经济群体之间的差异，连接老年人与年轻人。创造这些代际互动的机会将有助于将我们的国家认同锚定于记忆与更新。
我们必须防止随着经济压力上升形成社会孤岛。“我们优先”的社会必须确保同情心和相互支持继续嵌入我们的社会契约中。
主席，因此，我期待听到文化、社区及青年部如何进一步在社会多个方面植入“我们优先”的精神，使我们的国家认同通过参与而非仅仅说服形成。
这将成为我们人民之间一种安静而持久的信念：我们的命运是共同的，当世界更加动荡时，新加坡人会本能地做我们一直最擅长的事——把“我们”置于“我”之前。因为在这个不确定的世界里，新加坡最大的力量不仅是我们的经济或制度，而是我们的人民。
[(程序文本) 提出问题。 (程序文本)]
下午1时
宗教机构与青年
玛丽亚姆·贾法尔女士（森巴旺）：（马来语）：[请参阅方言演讲。]我们的年轻人面临诸多压力——学校、考试、社交媒体。许多人默默地问自己：“我是谁，我属于哪里？”
当压力、身份和归属感交织时，我们的清真寺不仅仅是礼拜场所。它们可以成为安全港湾。清真寺可以成为青年福祉的强大伙伴，因为它们提供社区、意义和可信赖的成年人指导。
对许多青年而言，焦虑或身份的挣扎不仅是情感问题，更是精神问题。它们关乎目的、自我价值以及与信仰的关系。精神指导与福祉密不可分。
我鼓励看到新加坡伊斯兰宗教理事会（MUIS）和清真寺部门在青年参与方面加大力度，包括像NEXTGEN这样的项目。但我们需要做三件事。
首先，倾听。给予青年真正的发声权。在区级和教区级持续进行青年共创，使项目能针对青年面临的真实挑战。
第二，装备。当年轻人遇到困难时，他们可能会先找乌斯塔兹或青年领袖，而非正式服务。我们准备好迎接这一时刻了吗？我们能否考虑在清真寺试点培训有素的青年辅导员、同伴支持小组并正式建立明确的转介路径？精神指导与专业关怀必须携手并进。
第三，主动出击。我们不能等待青年走进清真寺的大门，而应主动走向他们。将辅导和韧性工作坊带入社区空间和数字平台，在他们所在之处与他们相遇。
每位年轻的马来/穆斯林都应知道：他们被看见、被重视、被支持——无论在信仰还是生活中。当我们的青年扎根于信仰并获得福祉支持时，我们的社区——乃至国家——都更加强大。
新加坡伊斯兰研究学院
赛义德·哈伦·阿尔哈布西博士（义顺）：新加坡伊斯兰研究学院（SCIS）是对本地穆斯林社区下一代宗教领导和学术研究的投资，建立在我们马德拉萨和宗教机构现有工作和贡献的基础上。
SCIS将如何确保其课程保持与全球其他机构相当的伊斯兰学术高标准，旨在培养不仅满足穆斯林社区需求的毕业生，还能将其深厚的学术知识、智慧和专长扩展至更广泛的新加坡社会乃至全球？
部长如何看待SCIS在当今全球发展背景下的重要性、核心地位及发展，以及SCIS在新加坡国家建设和未来愿景中的潜在贡献？
清真寺建设规划参数
法兹利·法乌兹先生（阿裕尼）：（马来语）：[请参阅方言演讲。]主席，今年一月，我曾提出议会质询，询问用于决定是否建设新清真寺的人口规划参数，是否不仅包括穆斯林居民，还包括白天穆斯林工作人口和穆斯林外劳。
部长的答复未透露政府使用的具体人口规划参数或清真寺与穆斯林居民的确切比例。
我的问题源于计划关闭蔡厝港的Masjid Al-Firdaus。尽管位于偏远地区，该清真寺60多年来一直满足社区的精神需求，包括附近服役的国民服役人员和该地区的外劳。
Masjid Al-Firdaus将在中央区新清真寺建成后关闭。这引发了一个问题：具体的规划参数是什么，用以决定何时关闭、搬迁、扩建或新建清真寺？政府是否有目标的清真寺与穆斯林居民人口比例？如果有，能否明确说明？
此外，虽然我们依赖规划参数决定建多少清真寺，但我们也必须考虑超越数字的遗产。
例如，由于历史定居模式，我们仍有村落式清真寺，位于人口稀少地区，如武吉布朗的Masjid Omar Salmah或女皇镇的Masjid Hang Jebat。这些清真寺可能不再有大量会众，但拥有对社区有意义的悠久历史。
新建住宅区时，政策是否会通过搬迁或关闭旧清真寺（如Masjid Al-Firdaus）来合理化清真寺数量？
正如部长所指出，清真寺由社区通过清真寺建设及MENDAKI基金（MBMF）资助。清真寺一直是社区资源和信仰、历史及身份的支柱，由牺牲和集体努力建成。我们如何在审慎的城市规划与遗产保护之间取得更好平衡？
通过新加坡社区瓦卡夫留下持久遗产
阿卜杜勒·穆海敏·阿卜杜勒·马利克先生（盛港）：（马来语）：[请参阅方言演讲。]自2024年8月3日启动以来，只有150名穆斯林在遗嘱或提名中指定新加坡社区瓦卡夫（WMS）为受益人。这仅占60岁以上穆斯林的0.1%，在整个穆斯林人口中比例更小。这些数字值得我们深思。
WMS有潜力成为支持SCIS的财政支柱，确保我们马德拉萨的持续运营，并覆盖清真寺的运营和租赁费用。除了资助机构和基础设施，WMS资金预计还将流向社会支持项目、教育和青年发展——这些投资将塑造未来几代人的品格和能力。
若贡献不足，我们将危及维护宗教遗产和培育社区潜力的机构和项目。
WMS为新加坡每位穆斯林提供了创造永续遗产的机会，在其他瓦卡夫形式受限时尤为重要。每一份贡献都是一颗持续结果的种子——支持学生、维持礼拜场所、帮助有需要者。
我建议通过多样化平台大幅扩大社区参与：清真寺、社区中心、学校、专业协会和学生社团。这些活动应赋能社区，了解WMS潜在的深远精神和社会影响。
我想问部长：
第一，部如何针对我们穆斯林社区不同群体定制推广工作？我们的社区多元美丽——印度穆斯林、华裔穆斯林、阿拉伯穆斯林、马来穆斯林、青年、专业人士和长者。每个群体有独特视角和偏好沟通渠道。是否会有针对性项目与其具体背景共鸣？
第二，部是否承诺全面披露基金管理资产，并在基金启动后定期向贡献者遗产提供更新？当社区看到资金被负责任地使用——学生毕业、家庭获支持、清真寺维护——这将增强信任并激励他人效仿。
从150名贡献者到数千人——这必须是我们的发展轨迹。每个穆斯林家庭都应将WMS纳入遗产规划，不是义务，而是投资永恒的机会。
与家庭同行
纳迪娅·艾哈迈德·萨姆丁女士（宏茂桥）：（马来语）：[请参阅方言演讲。]主席，我想谈谈许多年轻家庭面临的挑战。许多属于“夹心层”，面临生活成本上升的压力，同时平衡抚养子女和照顾年迈父母的责任。有时，他们缺乏强大的家庭支持网络，不像前几代人。
作为母亲，我经历了充满喜悦的婚姻和育儿初期。但面对新体验时，可能会出现困惑、恐惧和疲惫的感觉。准备早餐、适应新作息、孩子哭闹时熬夜——同时平衡工作和家庭需求。这会影响家庭福祉。
在这方面，Bersamamu项目和ARIF计划帮助了许多早期婚姻和育儿的年轻夫妇，提供宗教指导、医疗视角和实用技能，如财务规划。
请问ARIF计划和Bersamamu项目的最新进展如何——有多少年轻夫妇受益？是否有计划扩展服务，特别是针对年轻夫妇的心理健康和福祉支持？
此外，我们能否考虑加强与KidSTART等项目的合作，以实现持续的家庭支持？
政府将如何扩大推广，确保年轻夫妇了解这些项目？
随着多代同堂家庭和长者人数增加，我们的社会景观明显变化。我一直倡导关注长者。国家层面有许多支持长者的努力。但我们能否考虑支持多代同堂家庭和长者的项目？
使用MENDAKI基金
阿扎尔·奥斯曼先生（提名议员）：（马来语）：[请参阅方言演讲。]主席，我请求部考虑允许使用MENDAKI基金建立卓越社区。虽然我们理解大部分资金用于教育，但必须认识到该组织的财务仍然稳健。
我们需要超越教育作为唯一成功路径，探索艺术、体育和职业发展等其他成就形式。我们希望确保每个人都获得必要支持，成为最好的自己。
MENDAKI还应考虑为家庭提供全面支持，包括财务素养教育和加强家庭纽带。
MENDAKI应设想如何发展这一社区，并确保支持该社区的项目得到全面且专业的实施。
下午1时15分
为马来/穆斯林儿童准备人工智能经济
萨克提安迪·苏帕特先生（碧山-大巴窑）：（马来语）：[请参阅方言演讲。]主席，我们的人工智能转型战略的一部分必须确保我们的儿童和青年不仅能使用技术，还能利用技术创造价值。
我最近在大巴窑遇到一名中四学生，他告诉我他对人工智能感兴趣。但进一步询问时，他说自己从未编程，不知道如何开始。他缺乏的不是志向，而是接触和指导。
首先，我们如何评估加强读写、算术和数字信心基础的努力效果——尤其是对可能缺乏家庭学习支持的马来/穆斯林儿童？
第二，针对马来/穆斯林青年的项目如何更紧密地与增长行业对接——如应用技术、先进制造和数字服务——以确保他们的参与真正开辟良好就业路径？
最后，除了参与人数，我们跟踪哪些成果指标——如参与者进步和将行业培训转化为永久就业——以确保持久影响？
加强对马来/穆斯林长者的支持
（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 主席先生，在我们的马来/穆斯林社区，家庭一直是主要的照顾者。我们的许多长者由子女和孙辈支持，他们提供陪伴、经济帮助和日常协助。
但随着家庭结构的演变和工作生活变得更加繁忙，我们应当思考如何可持续地支持长者的社会和心理健康？
在基层，我们看到一些长者是鳏寡独居，年迈的父母不愿给子女添负担，或者照顾者默默地兼顾工作和长者照护责任。他们中的许多人并不公开表达自己的困难。
这就是为什么社会和情感支持必须超越偶尔的活动。它必须是持续的、值得信赖且易于获得的。
首先，我们如何加强长者的友伴计划、同伴支持和社区接触点，使长者全年保持社会联系？我们如何在当今现代住房环境中重拾“甘榜精神”？
第二，我们能做些什么来支持马来/穆斯林社区中的照顾者——尤其是那些在“夹心层”平衡工作和父母照护的人？是否有便捷的支持网络和早期干预渠道以防止照顾者倦怠？
第三，除了项目参与人数，我们使用哪些指标来衡量实际影响——例如减少孤立、改善情绪健康和加强代际互动？
主席：沙拉尔·塔哈先生。您可以将三个发言合并。
发展青年潜力
沙拉尔·塔哈先生（巴西立-樟宜）：（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。]（马来语）：主席先生，我们的年轻人是社区未来的希望。MENDAKI辅导计划极大地帮助了我们的学生学业成功。然而，我们孩子的未来不能仅依赖补习。
关键问题是：我们是否真正为年轻人准备了明天的就业市场？
如今，世界变化迅速。新兴产业如科技、人工智能、工程和数字经济正在扩展。我们希望看到更多年轻人敢于梦想，对自己的能力充满信心，追求未来产业，如航空航天、人工智能和网络安全。
政府和社区组织需要建立更紧密的合作伙伴关系——不仅在学业支持方面，还包括职业体验、导师指导和真实的就业机会。
在M3@巴西立-樟宜，我们开展了学习之旅、机器人大战和黑客马拉松等项目，让年轻人接触新兴产业所需技能。然而，这些努力需要进一步扩大。随着超过10个行业专业网络的建立，我们如何利用这些网络提高对新技能、职业路径和就业机会的认识，尤其是针对年轻人？这些网络如何与学校、MENDAKI辅导、M3项目和青年组织合作，使更多年轻人早期接触未来产业？
马来/穆斯林长者支持生态系统
（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 到2030年，新加坡将成为老龄社会。
许多长者每天访问清真寺——不仅是为了祈祷，也是为了寻求平静、支持和陪伴。清真寺在我们社区生活中扮演关键角色。
设想如果清真寺能与卫生促进局、卫生部以及金融领域合作伙伴更紧密合作，提供全面的健康、财务和社会支持——所有服务都在他们信任和熟悉的地方。
在巴西立-樟宜，Al-Istighfar清真寺与M3联合举办了持久授权书讲座，进行了健康筛查，以及举办了Yallah Run和与穆夫提一起运动等健身活动，以支持长者福祉。
我的问题是：清真寺如何与这些机构更紧密合作，既提供宗教支持，也为教众提供全面援助？
支持马来/穆斯林企业
（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 主席先生，经济快速发展，我们不能仅做旁观者。随着国家人工智能理事会、国家人工智能使命和人工智能冠军计划的成立，许多新机遇正在出现。
问题是：马来/穆斯林企业准备好迈入这个新世界了吗？
马来/穆斯林青年就业转型
万瑞扎尔博士（惹兰勿刹）：（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 先生，我想谈谈青年从高等教育机构、工艺教育学院（ITE）、理工学院和大学过渡到职场的情况。
这一转变是每个年轻人生活中的重要时刻。在快速变化的经济中，拥有证书或文凭已不再足够。
我们的青年需要早期接触增长行业，了解未来技能，并与雇主建立更紧密的关系。
我们希望更多青年进入科技、先进制造、医疗保健和人工智能相关岗位，这不是偶然，而是通过明确和规划的路径实现。
在M3的第四重点领域（FA4）下，有空间以更结构化的方式加强对这一转型的支持。
工会和全国职工总会（NTUC）准备与MENDAKI、高等院校、雇主及社区伙伴如MEMBINA Komuniti和4PM合作，早期在校园内加强职业指导，提供职业辅导服务渠道，针对增长行业提供更有针对性的技能建议，扩大行业导师和专业网络的接触，最后开放实习、岗位培训和高潜力行业的入门岗位路径。
这种更综合的方法有助于确保青年了解可用机会，建立信心，更有准备地面对转型。
然而，如果由各部委、机构和教育机构之间的强有力协调支持，这一努力将更有效，使转型路径结构合理、目标明确，并在证明有效后可扩大规模。
因此，我希望部长阐述政府如何计划加强部委、高等院校和社区伙伴之间的协调，使青年转型支持更系统化、可衡量，并帮助更多青年进入增长行业的优质岗位？
马来文化中心
赛义德·哈伦·阿尔哈布西博士（义顺）：（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 语言、传统和文化是强化我们族群认同的支柱。这些元素塑造我们如何理解和欣赏各自的遗产，帮助我们找到平衡，在新加坡多元文化中共同构建力量和团结。
部长能否更新我们关于马来文化中心重新开放的筹备项目及现状？该中心计划于今年四月重新开放。
马来文化中心如何继续提升对马来文化的认知、知识和欣赏，特别是在年轻人中，同时为加强社会凝聚力和未来国家建设的更广泛努力做出贡献？
马来/穆斯林与印度/穆斯林组织合作
哈米德·拉扎克博士（西海岸-裕廊西）：主席先生，先生，在新加坡，我们非常幸运拥有强大的马来/穆斯林组织（MMOs）、印度/穆斯林组织（IMOs）及其他热心伙伴。但当努力各自为政时，居民可能面临重复接触点、服务间隙或组织间交接混乱。
这正是M3网络可以发挥实际召集作用的地方，加强MMOs、IMOs及其他社区伙伴间的合作，整合优势，使基层外展更协调。我有两个问题请教部长。
第一，M3网络如何加强MMOs、IMOs及其他社区伙伴间的合作，包括共享转介和联合规划，使个人和家庭体验到一个协调一致的帮助路径？部长是否考虑采用“无错门”策略？
第二，部长是否考虑为MMOs、IMOs及伙伴制定统一操作手册，包含简单的导航标准和一套共享成果，以使外展更顺畅？请用马来语回答。
（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 主席先生，我呼吁我们的马来/穆斯林社区组织和基层团体携手合作，而非各自为政。
每个组织都有其优势——有的擅长青年事务，有的专注家庭问题，有的强于教育、职业或社会服务。若协调努力，我们能更快更有效地触及更多人。
让我们互补优势，分享清晰框架，按各自强项贡献，使社区实现成为最好的自己，坚定身份认同，继续为新加坡贡献的愿景。
（英语）：请用泰米尔语回答。
（泰米尔语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] 主席先生，尽管印度/穆斯林社区规模较小，但它持续为国家建设做出贡献。印度/穆斯林社区现今多元，组织众多，每个组织各有优势。解决社区问题需要全社区努力。
什么是全社区努力？即MMOs、IMOs及其他社区组织必须团结合作，实现国家目标。
若我们携手合作，最后一公里的外展将更精准。让我们共同努力，使青年、家庭及有需要者共同进步。
共建共荣
哈兹丽娜·阿卜杜勒·哈利姆女士（东海岸）：主席先生，我将聚焦三个领域——SCIS，强化对马来/印度及/或穆斯林组织的支持，以及提升家庭社会流动性。先生，用马来语。
（马来语）：[请参阅本地语演讲。] SCIS的成立是发展本地宗教领导力的重要一步，该领导力既有能力又适应新加坡独特多元文化社会，同时熟悉东南亚动态。
许多人对SCIS的成功和公信力寄予厚望，视其为社区和新加坡的长期投资。
上月在议会，我向代理部长提出有关SCIS的问题，并对其澄清感到鼓舞，确认SCIS的成立受到区域伙伴的欢迎。
因此，为增强对SCIS的信心，必须分享确保其质量、治理和预期成果的努力信息。
请问SCIS如何确保其项目的质量控制，使毕业生未来能引导社区，同时为新加坡作出贡献？
除了学术资格，目标标准在多大程度上强调强烈的宗教理解、全面的精神能力，以及毕业生引导穆斯林社区应对当前社会挑战的能力？
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主席先生，作为曾在PPIS服务逾十年——这是最大的MMO之一——及首批Tunas项目成员，我深刻理解、珍惜并尊重我们的MMOs和IMOs。
大多数MMOs和IMOs成立于1965年前，历经风雨，屹立至今。
它们各自专注于不同目标，无论是强化家庭和赋权妇女，支持工人，培养青年，还是引导儿童。
它们是经验丰富的组织，是社区信任的支柱。MMOs和IMOs是社区的宝贵资产。
因此，应优先作为长期战略伙伴，关注其可持续性。
目前，Yayasan MENDAKI正努力确保更多人受益于社区领袖论坛（CLF）资金——这项重要工作必须持续。我请求代理部长总结MMOs/IMOs对CLF资金的使用率及鼓励更大参与的新举措。
其次，2019年Kurnia@WGS随芽笼实业大厦开幕而成立，旨在联合MMOs和IMOs，使社区更易获得全面支持。
据悉，自今年一月起，这两个办公室已与M3@芽笼实业大厦合并，以促进更紧密合作。
我希望代理部长能分享Kurnia@WGS的成就和未来计划，以及该努力是否将扩展至其他M3镇，尤其是我负责的M3@勿洛。
主席先生，无论运营者是M3、MMOs/IMOs还是社会服务机构，使命始终如一——提升社区生活质量，创造更光明的未来。
因此，新加坡积极支持弱势家庭的努力必须继续。
主席先生，这些家庭面临的挑战极其复杂——涵盖经济压力、健康问题、家庭关系、就业甚至住房问题。
幸运的是，家庭服务中心、社会服务办公室、MMOs、ComLink、M3的Project Dian等多方提供援助。请代理部长总结这一支持生态系统对弱势家庭的成效，并分享最新信息及未来加强Project Dian的计划。
（英语）：主席先生，良好政策必须落实于现实生活。若协调仅停留在纸面，家庭仍需自行应对系统复杂性。必须有共享的实践标准、明确的转介路径以确保持续照护。
除了项目和补贴，社会资本本身也很重要。建立社会资本的社区平台，如专业网络、校友网络或跨社区联系，对社会流动性起关键作用。为实现跨代持续的社会流动，我们必须有意投资于社会资本，开拓机会之门，而非仅限于服务和补贴。
主席先生，正如过去两周议会常说：起点不应决定终点。
主席：代理部长穆罕默德·法伊沙尔·易卜拉欣教授。
穆罕默德·法伊沙尔·易卜拉欣副部长（负责穆斯林事务）：主席先生，若获准，我将在发言后回答问题。
主席先生，请允许我简短谈谈中东局势。我们与受影响地区的无辜平民同在，祈祷他们平安。袭击发生在斋戒月期间，更加令人痛心。我们正与外交部同事密切关注局势。
昨晚我与一些在中东的新加坡学生视频通话。他们 understandably 感到担忧，但保持冷静。我向他们保证，安全和福祉是我们的首要任务。我们将继续保持密切联系，提供一切可能的支持。
我们也与穆斯林旅行社协会（AMTAS）保持联系。他们已建议会员机构在必要时协助受影响的朝觐旅客调整行程。
这些事件提醒我们，新加坡的和平与和谐尤为珍贵，不能视为理所当然。有句马来谚语：“sehati menghadapi, sepakat membangun”，意为同心协力克服挑战，共建美好未来。
这一直是所有新加坡人，尤其是马来/穆斯林社区的显著优势。它帮助我们的社区多年来取得显著进步。我们建立了更稳固的婚姻和更有韧性的家庭。我们的孩子受教育更好，许多人在经济各领域找到优质工作。
我们能够自由信仰，骄傲地庆祝文化，并与其他种族、宗教和文化的朋友和谐共处。尽管取得进展，我也意识到每个人的生活经历不同。在与社区交流中，我听到对就业安全的担忧，有人分享了寻求帮助的困难，也有人呼吁更多支持那些默默挣扎的人。前进路上，确保无人被遗忘至关重要。
主席先生，许多人问我对社区的愿景是什么。尽管我们各有不同境遇，我期望马来/穆斯林社区的每个成员在生命的每个阶段都能成为最好的自己。
我不仅代表自己，也代表我的议会同事、政府机构、MMOs、IMOs、志愿者及许多每天慷慨奉献的人。正因如此，我们社区的每个成员都不应孤单前行。
通过携手共进、同心协力，我们能实现帮助社区每个成员茁壮成长的愿景。我们将通过三个关键支柱实现这一目标。
首先，我们将提升各个生命阶段的个人，为他们提供成功的机会。其次，我们将发展值得信赖的宗教机构，丰富我们的社区宗教生活。第三，我们将培育充满活力的文化领域，庆祝我们独特的新加坡马来艺术、文化和身份。
首先，我们希望提升个人，在每个生命阶段为他们提供卓越的机会。有些人已经表现良好，在正确的激励下，他们可以达到更高的高度。其他人可能需要额外的帮助才能成功。
正如Nadia Ahmad Samdin女士所提到的，强大的家庭是关键，因为它们是我们社区和社会的基石。家庭培养责任感和同理心等价值观，塑造我们作为个人的身份，并建立我们应对生活挑战的信心。强大的家庭始于稳定的婚姻，这也是Bersamamu计划对我们的穆斯林社区如此重要的原因。
自2019年启动以来，Bersamamu已支持超过36,000对夫妇，提供来自我们的Kadi和Naib Kadi的婚姻支持和指导。他们在夫妇早期婚姻阶段担任值得信赖的顾问。
举例来说，新加坡-日本夫妇Radzi Barian Arlandito先生和Risa Shigemi女士从Bersamamu中受益匪浅。他们的Naib Kadi，Ustaz Mohammed Nazim Bin Rahuma Dulla，提供了宝贵的建议，帮助他们应对文化差异、宗教习俗和家庭动态。作为夫妇的导师，Ustaz Nazim提供精神指导，并将他们与面临类似情况的志同道合的夫妇联系起来。
为了帮助更多像Radzi先生和Risa女士这样的夫妇，我们将扩大Bersamamu计划，进一步加强对穆斯林夫妇的婚姻支持。
我们将增加约50%的Kadi和Naib Kadi人数，以更好地支持新婚穆斯林夫妇，特别是那些需要更多帮助的夫妇。这些夫妇可以受益于额外的婚后面对面辅导，以确保他们在婚姻旅程中有一个更坚实的起点。
我们还将通过派遣家庭发展官员到新加坡选定的清真寺，使社区更容易获得婚姻支持服务。这些官员将指导夫妇了解各种国家和社区项目，以满足他们的需求，包括那些承担双重照顾责任的夫妇。
综合来看，夫妇可以获得更多帮助，并针对高风险婚姻进行有针对性的跟进，以便在问题升级为危机之前及早解决。
我们还将扩大Bersamamu计划，纳入育儿支持，实现从婚姻到育儿的无缝协助。
在ARIF项目试点期间，母亲们获得了来自Kadi和Naib Kadi以及KK妇女儿童医院的医疗社会工作者和医疗专业人员的综合支持。这包括那些不符合KidSTART资格的人，以确保他们继续获得必要的支持。约有5,000对夫妇受益于该试点，并在婴儿完成强制免疫和至少哺乳三个月方面表现出改善的母婴健康结果。
从2026年6月起，我们将把ARIF项目作为Bersamamu计划的永久组成部分。从婚姻指导到育儿支持，我们正在拓宽关怀的连续性，以培育更有韧性的家庭，并为我们的孩子提供最佳的生命起点。
主席先生，我们希望为每个孩子提供必要的支持和途径，使他们能够抓住成功的机会，无论其背景如何。我们的社区在教育成就方面取得了显著进步，教育投资仍是重点，但我同意Azhar Othman先生的看法，我们还可以在其他领域帮助每个孩子发挥最大潜力。
这就是为什么我最近与高级国务部长Zaqy Mohamad一起启动的MENDAKI 2030工作计划，不仅培养自信的学习者，还包括建设更强大的家庭、支持未来准备好的劳动力和发展繁荣的社区。
我们认识到卓越始于早期和家庭，因此MENDAKI加强了支持育儿旅程的系列项目。今年4月起，家长们可以期待在社区中心举办的ReadySetLearn（RSL）巡回展，方便获取支持孩子全面成长的工作坊和资源。
这项支持的关键组成部分是RSL数学探险者，前身为KelasMateMatika，旨在帮助家长指导学龄前儿童的数字技能，并为小学一年级的数学做好准备。结果显而易见——该项目中九成参与的学龄前儿童进入小学一年级时无需数学学习支持。
MENDAKI将扩大这些努力，推出RSL语言探险者，一项旨在帮助家长培养英语和马来语早期读写能力的阅读项目。这些项目将共同建立信心，加强学习，为长期学业成功奠定基础。
主席先生，对于面临更大挑战的家庭的孩子来说，因父母轮班工作或需照顾年幼兄弟姐妹等原因，定期上学可能很困难。这些“最后一公里”的差距阻碍他们充分参与教育，进而影响其全面发展。我们决心通过提供这些孩子及其家庭所需的定制支持来弥合这些差距。
因此，我很高兴MENDAKI与教育部（MOE），在社会及家庭发展部和文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）的支持下，在淡滨尼选定学校启动了一项试点计划，加强对需要额外帮助的马来/穆斯林家庭儿童的课后照顾和支持。
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对于一些家庭及其孩子，所需帮助可能是提供更好的营养、家中的学习桌或替代托儿安排。对于其他人，则可能是连接到可信赖的导师，解决激励问题。
因此，在该试点中，MENDAKI关怀顾问将与每个被识别孩子的家庭、学校或其他社会服务专业人员合作，了解其独特需求，并为孩子制定个性化关怀计划。学校与社区的合作将提供学业和非学业支持，以补充现有的学校努力。
该试点已于今年早些时候启动，我要感谢参与的学校和MENDAKI，他们不懈努力促成了这一合作，以及基层顾问Dr Charlene Chen和代理部长David Neo，感谢他们提出这一方法以满足淡滨尼需要额外帮助学生的需求。我们共同确保没有孩子因环境而被落下。
Saktiandi Supaat先生询问马来/穆斯林教育举措如何发展以准备我们的青年迎接人工智能驱动的经济，Sharael Taha先生询问MENDAKI如何通过指导和路径意识更好地为我们的儿童和青年准备未来。
主席先生，MENDAKI的辅导计划帮助许多学生在学业上取得进步。但我们不能仅依赖辅导来为学生准备未来。这就是为什么MENDAKI将该计划升级为MENDAKI成就计划，增加了两个新重点领域。
第一个是丰富，学生将有机会接触人工智能探索和机器人等领域的项目。第二个是参与，学生将接触各种教育和职业路径。
目前，MENDAKI青年指导办公室已帮助匹配了超过2,500名中三至大学生的导师。MENDAKI将扩大指导计划，从中一学生开始。这将使更多学生和家长连接到支持系统，如MENDAKI专业网络，帮助他们做出更明智的教育和职业选择。
Wan Rizal博士询问如何支持青年职业转型。我们将创建更多平台，让青年与在所选领域取得成功的专业人士交流学习，为进入职场做好准备。
MENDAKI最近与全国职工总会（NTUC）就业与就业能力学院（e2i）签署谅解备忘录（MOU），通过有针对性的工作坊和社区参与活动加强人工智能准备。还将扩大职业咨询服务、技能发展路径和就业机会的获取。这些努力将使我们的青年更好地做出职业路径决策，抓住增长行业的机会。
去年十月，我们成立了由国务部长Rahayu和高级议会秘书Syed Harun博士领导的马来/穆斯林青年工作组，听取青年对职业发展、身份和价值观以及如何为社会做贡献的看法。通过该工作组，我们希望保持政策的相关性，并让青年投资于新加坡的未来。
工作组已任命13名青年顾问，他们是来自创业、体育、数字媒体、技术、宗教和社会部门等多元领域的领导者。他们与M3机构和国家青年理事会合作，安排了一系列青年对话，捕捉青年对各种贴近心声问题的观点，并共同创造支持国家SG青年计划的举措。我期待在八月即将举行的M3青年节上听取他们关于推动社区发展的看法。
我详细谈到了我们的青年，但我们也必须记住那些为我们建设更好未来付出巨大贡献的长者。Saktiandi Supaat先生和Sharael Taha先生都询问了我们如何加强对社区长者的全面支持。我与他们的关切一致。
我们必须确保长者在晚年继续茁壮成长。我们的马来/穆斯林长者告诉我，他们状况良好，但希望能更广泛且有意义地与他人联系。主席先生，健康老龄化不仅关乎健康和福祉，也关乎陪伴、尊严和目标感。
因此，当Masjid Al-Muttaqin与Ma:een及Muhammadiyah积极老龄中心合作发起Santunan Emas时，我感到非常欣慰。这是一项全面的自下而上的努力，为我们的长者和照顾者提供宗教指导、社交活动和医疗支持。
该计划在其他清真寺如Masjid Darul Makmur和Masjid Yusof Ishak的支持下已扩大，每周惠及近900名长者。这些清真寺还与综合护理机构、国家医疗集团和新加坡临终关怀理事会等合作，走访养老院和临终关怀中心的长者。
我最近参加了在Masjid Darul Ghufran举办的Santunan Emas巡回展，亲眼见证了我们的清真寺、合作机构和志愿者如何与长者及其照顾者互动，支持他们在不同需求领域。这种关怀生态系统确认了为我们的马来/穆斯林长者开发由社区为社区的针对性计划的必要性。
因此，我已要求MUIS和人民协会（PA）支持Santunan Emas的努力，并协助调动跨健康、社会、金融和宗教领域的资源和机构。
例如，MUIS将与本地清真寺的Santunan Emas网络合作，识别需求并促进与其他社区组织及医疗服务提供者的合作，以提升医疗服务。PA凭借其基层网络，也能动员其他长者担任陪伴者、导师和社区活跃成员。这样，我们不仅加强服务，也强化了对长者的关怀和尊严文化。
主席先生，现在让我谈谈我们的企业和工人。
总理已概述了针对企业的全面支持措施，以应对严峻的经济环境，包括企业税回扣。预算还为我们的企业和工人提供了长期转型的助推，包括拓展新市场、再培训和提升技能，以及采用人工智能等新技术。特别是低薪工人将受益于渐进式工资补贴和工作技能支持计划的增强，而职业转型的工人将受益于扩展的SkillsFuture Level-Up计划。我鼓励我们的马来/穆斯林企业和工人充分利用这些计划。
Sharael Taha先生询问马来/穆斯林企业如何在数字和人工智能经济中有意义地参与。政府已宣布将人工智能作为战略优势。人工智能冠军计划、企业创新计划的增强以及生产力解决方案补助的扩展将实施，帮助企业自信地利用人工智能进行转型和增长。
追求人工智能必须转化为更好的成果，如更强的生计和更多机会，使我们的社区能够自信地在人工智能经济中前进。
这就是为什么我们必须使技能提升切实可行且易于获得。正如国务部长Rahayu在数字发展与信息部供应委员会辩论中分享的，工人可以通过Langkah Digital项目提升技能，这是由MENDAKI主导的M3倡议，旨在加强我们社区的人工智能和数字素养。通过实用的工作坊和活动，帮助社区了解如何最好地利用人工智能。这将补充总理宣布的国家措施，包括六个月免费使用人工智能工具高级版本，帮助社区从学习到应用人工智能，并在工作中受益。
主席先生，我分享的努力反映了我们坚定不移地致力于提升社区每个成员。通过这样做，我们希望他们能够回馈社会，强化整个社区。
先生们，我们的清真寺是社区宗教生活的核心。它们不仅是礼拜场所，更是促进精神成长和健康的社区中心，信仰通过集体祈祷、学习和服务他人而生动起来。为了保持相关性，我们的清真寺必须具有前瞻性，能够适应社区不断变化的需求。
Fadli Fawzi先生询问我们如何规划清真寺的发展和关闭。正如我在议会中所述，MUIS考虑了影响祈祷空间需求的关键因素，如预计人口变化及土地开发计划，包括新建住宅区。清真寺的遗产对我们很重要。对于具有遗产价值的清真寺，MUIS将与清真寺领导和相关机构密切合作予以保护，包括在需要搬迁的情况下。
我们致力于确保随着新加坡的发展，社区的宗教需求得到充分满足。除了基础设施，我们的清真寺还提供各种促进社区建设的项目。我同意Mariam Jaafar女士的看法，我们的清真寺可以在与青年合作改善其福祉方面发挥更大作用。
诸如NEXTGEN SG清真寺青年研讨会和与穆夫提的清真寺对话等举措，使青年能够就当代问题与宗教领导层交流，探讨年轻人的具体关切，并基于信仰发展解决实际问题的方案。我们的牧灵关怀项目也为面临生活困难的人提供精神指导和支持。这也包括共同参与活动，不仅仅是对话。清真寺领导和青年一起外出共度时光，彼此学习。我们将考虑Mariam Jaafar女士早前提出的有益建议。
我们的阿萨提扎帮助社区应对现代问题，如社会挑战、技术进步和地缘政治冲突。作为当代阿萨提扎，不仅需要深厚的宗教知识，还需具备与人沟通、以智慧和同情心桥接不同社区的能力。我们的阿萨提扎必须体现这些价值观，以同理心参与并发展相关技能，成为当今复杂全球环境中社区的有效引导者。
主席先生，这正是我们必须继续发展宗教领导力的原因，我们在这方面最重要的投资之一是新加坡伊斯兰学院（SCIS）。Syed Harun博士询问我们如何确保SCIS的课程在保持高水平伊斯兰学术标准的同时，满足本地穆斯林社区的需求。
SCIS将由我们的穆夫提领导，并由杰出学者支持。课程将是跨学科的，融入社会科学模块，为未来的阿萨提扎提供全面视角，并提升他们在宗教及相关领域的就业能力。
我们进展顺利。SCIS计划于2028年开学。我们已与新加坡社会科学大学签署谅解备忘录，并正在敲定与埃及、约旦和摩洛哥机构的其他合作。SCIS位于洛查区的校园建设也在进行中。
主席先生，我们的清真寺、伊斯兰学校和新加坡伊斯兰宗教学院（SCIS）是我们社区共同拥有的机构。Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik 先生询问了关于WMS的最新情况。我很高兴分享，穆斯林事务局（MUIS）已与多个合作伙伴共同举办了20多项外展活动，覆盖了包括工人、长者以及印度/穆斯林社区在内的不同群体。我们还任命了WMS大使，以扩大我们的外展工作。
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截至2026年2月，WMS已筹集超过850万新元，来自超过15,400笔捐款。我强烈鼓励有能力的人回馈社区，这将确保我们社会和宗教需求的财务可持续性，惠及子孙后代。只有当我们的宗教机构强大时，我们才能培育丰富的社区宗教生活。
主席先生，我们丰富的新加坡马来文化和遗产是我们身份和社区感的基石，定义了我们作为独特的新加坡马来人的特质。
我一直很喜欢参加我们社区的文化活动。去年11月，我有幸体验了Gentarasa SG60。我被表演者的艺术卓越、热情和奉献精神所打动，他们以极具真实性的方式将我们的传统生动展现。我们的文化表达是讲故事、身份形成和代际联系的载体，帮助年轻人理解他们的文化根源，同时激励他们为我们不断发展的文化叙事贡献自己的创造性声音。
我们文化和遗产的核心是甘榜格南的马来遗产中心（MHC）。
Syed Harun博士询问了MHC重新开放的最新情况。MHC将于今年4月重新开放，届时将举办“Pesta Pecah Panggung – 超越界限”节日活动，汇聚60多个合作伙伴的节目，展示新加坡和南洋群岛的艺术、青年才华和社区创意。我强烈鼓励大家参与这些庆祝活动。
焕新后的MHC将拓展其使命，超越传统的文物和展览收藏角色，成为一个充满活力的中心，提供多样化的项目，如儿童和青少年节日、定期电影放映及社区驱动的展示，推动甘榜格南的文化发展和场所营造迈上新台阶。
这一扩展角色的核心是MHC在深化马来文化和遗产的文献记录与研究方面的功能，作为从业者和社区的资源。
MHC将设立一个由咨询委员会领导的研究单位，主席为Norshahril Saat博士，旨在建立关于新加坡马来遗产的全面知识体系。该单位将与利益相关者合作，确定重点领域，并支持学者和社区团体的长期研究。
通过这一努力，我们将确保我们的文化叙事不仅被保存，而且被积极研究、理解并传承给未来世代。
然而，研究和记录还不够。我们需要像Jumaini Ariff女士这样的活跃从业者来保持我们的传统活力。Jumaini女士是一位热情的传统讲故事从业者，她的技艺总是令人惊叹。她深情地谈论这一传统，并分享了她对新一代继续传承Penglipur Lara传统的期望。当我与她交流时，我还能记得她当时的表演。
MHC还启动了非物质文化遗产导师计划，通过为期10周的结构化项目，将经验丰富的从业者与年轻爱好者连接起来。该计划体现了我们确保文化知识和技能代代相传的承诺，最终通过MHC的展示活动，让学员展示新获得的专业技能，并为古老传统注入新视角。
当我们的文化充满活力时，它不仅成为我们的骄傲源泉，也丰富了使新加坡独特的多元文化结构。
主席先生，我已概述了我们加强社区的三大支柱计划。
我们将通过为个人提供在各个生命阶段取得成功的机会来提升他们。我们将通过发展值得信赖的宗教机构来丰富社区宗教生活。我们将培育一个充满活力的文化部门，庆祝我们独特的身份。
这些目标建立在我们社区领导多年奠定的坚实基础之上。
例如，M3汇聚了MENDAKI、MUIS和人民协会马来活动执行委员会理事会（PA MESRA），通过重点领域和M3 @Towns解决社区问题。然而，正如Hamid Razak博士和Hazlina Halim女士指出的，我们必须扩大合作网络以实现这些目标。
因此，我们将扩展并重新命名M3为M3+。我们希望强调M3机构与社区合作伙伴之间更紧密的合作，在全国范围内制定战略，并在M3 @Towns层面实施项目。
我希望M3+能更好地认可马来社区组织（MMOs）、伊斯兰社区组织（IMOs）、非正式团体和个人贡献者的专业知识和社区联系，他们已经在基层做着卓越的工作。事实上，这在某些领域已经在进行。
例如，内政部和人民协会M3参与协调办公室一直与Jamiyah的Darul Islah中途之家、Pertapis中途之家和PPIS的Rise Above中途之家合作，加强康复和再融入工作。他们为300多名前罪犯举办了培训课程，帮助他们发展财务和实用技能，使他们能够为自己和家人建立可持续的未来。
在镇区层面，穆斯林专业人士协会也与M3 @Woodlands合作开展微型企业项目，向有志创业者传授财务管理、商业构思和市场营销等知识，帮助他们建立可持续的微型企业。该项目的一位参与者Muhammad Nor Hafiz先生成功将他的季节性饼干销售转变为名为Chonkery.sg的兴旺家族企业。
MMOs、IMOs及其他社区合作伙伴可以利用各种社区资源支持这些努力。例如，2025年，MENDAKI从社区领袖论坛基金中发放了超过200万新元，正如Hazlina女士所提。
正如Hamid Razak博士和Hazlina女士正确指出，许多MMOs和IMOs也直接为家庭提供服务。我们必须促进合作，改善协调，将M3机构和社区合作伙伴聚集起来，探索更好的协作方式。
这包括DIAN项目的持续努力，截至2025年底，我们已接触超过900个家庭。我们将在2026年4月启动这一激动人心的下一阶段，首先举办M3+网络交流会。
一些想法包括编制MMO和IMO合作伙伴提供服务的目录，以便M3重点领域负责人和M3 @Towns能够系统地与这些社区组织合作，识别新的机会和更大的协同效应，以更好地实施项目并弥补最后一公里的差距。
感谢Hamid博士和Hazlina女士的建议，并鼓励我们的MMOs、IMOs和个人挺身而出，与我们共同创造M3+。
与此努力同步，我们将继续通过TUNAS项目培养下一代社区领导者。
TUNAS汇聚新兴社区领导者，通过知识交流和网络建设，开展共同项目，并由资深社区领导者提供指导。迄今为止，已有两届领导者完成了TUNAS项目。今年晚些时候，我们将迎来第三届。
这些TUNAS毕业生将通过连接合作伙伴、识别合作机会和领导基层工作，推动M3+向前发展，使支持更顺畅地传递给有需要的人。主席先生，请用马来语发言。
（马来语）：[请参阅方言发言。] 主席先生，我对马来/穆斯林社区的愿景是我们携手前进，心怀同一个目标。秉持“携手同行，心连心”的精神，我们旨在提供机会和支持，使每个人在生命的每个阶段都能成为最好的自己。
我们将通过三大支柱实现这一愿景。首先，提升社区的社会和经济成果；其次，加强宗教机构，培育充满活力的宗教生活；第三，培育马来艺术、文化和遗产。
Bersamamu计划已支持超过36,000对夫妇，将通过增加约50%的Kadi和Naib Kadi人数，并在选定清真寺部署家庭发展官员来加强。此外，ARIF项目将成为永久性计划，帮助夫妇从婚姻到育儿的整个旅程。
在儿童教育方面，RSL计划将通过在社区中心举办的巡回展扩大，同时推出RSL语言探索者，以补充RSL数学探索者。MENDAKI成就计划将为学生提供早期接触人工智能和机器人技术的机会，MENDAKI的辅导计划也将扩展至中一学生，全面支持学生的教育旅程。
对于需要额外帮助的学生，我很高兴MENDAKI和教育部已在淡滨尼的部分学校启动试点项目。在社会及家庭发展部、文化社区青年部和社区合作伙伴的支持下，我们可以加强课后照顾和支持，帮助学生持续上学并提升学业表现。
对于我们的长者，MUIS和人民协会将支持Santunan Emas计划及其整体方法，这在老龄化社会中至关重要。该计划将为长者及其照顾者提供宗教指导、社交活动和医疗支持。该计划需要清真寺、社区合作伙伴、家庭和政府的紧密合作。通过这一集体努力，我们能确保长者获得所需支持，度过有意义的晚年生活。
清真寺将继续作为充满活力的社区中心，强化社区纽带，解决社会需求，满足不断发展的宗教生活需求。
新加坡伊斯兰宗教学院将于2028年开放。我们已与新加坡社会科学大学（SUSS）签署谅解备忘录，提供跨学科本科课程。我们也正在敲定与埃及、约旦和摩洛哥的伊斯兰教育机构的合作。这些努力旨在培养更有能力、准备好引导社区应对复杂当代问题的阿萨提扎（宗教学者）人才。
马来遗产中心将于今年4月重新开放。它将作为新加坡马来社区的文化核心，汇聚节日、电影放映和社区展览，活跃并丰富甘榜格南。该中心将塑造我们文化的未来方向，由Norshahril Saat博士领导的咨询委员会支持的研究单位提供支撑。
非物质文化遗产导师计划已启动，连接从业者与年轻一代。该计划为期10周，确保我们的知识和传统得以持续保存和发展。
先生，为扩大M3的影响力，我们必须扩大与MENDAKI、MUIS和MESRA网络之外合作伙伴的合作。因此，我将启动M3+，吸纳MMOs、IMOs、非正式团体和希望更全面贡献的个人。
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M3+将加强所提供的支持。每个M3 @Town和重点领域将与MMOs、IMOs、非正式团体及有志服务社区的个人密切合作，探索更有效协调努力的新机会。
该网络将于2026年4月启动，首先举办M3+网络交流会。
此外，TUNAS项目将继续通过知识交流、网络建设和资深社区领导者的指导，培养下一代社区领导者。
M3+延续了我们社区长期以来的合作精神，基于“携手同行，心连心”的原则。
让我们携手前进，心怀同一个目标，努力在生命的每个阶段成为最好的自己。
例如，Latipah Binte Abdul Rahman女士于2024年10月首次作为参与者加入Santunan Emas计划，寻求精神指导和社会支持。现在，她担任志愿者协调员，组织欢迎委员会，准备茶点，并主持锻炼和手工课程。她获得的知识和经验激励她回馈社区。Latipah女士的故事展示了参与者如何体现“心连心”的精神，随后成为帮助社区进步的贡献者。这正是我们希望在每位社区成员身上看到的转变。
（英语）：主席先生，我在演讲开头谈到了中东地区最近的发展。在全球不确定时期，加强我们团结的纽带尤为重要。外部冲突绝不能分裂我们。作为新加坡人，我们必须团结一致，互相支持，保持定义我们社会的相互尊重和理解。
我分享了我对我们社区的愿景，培育一个繁荣的社区，使每个成员都能成为最好的自己。我概述了通过三大支柱实现这一愿景的方法，涵盖社区发展的各个维度。
通过这三大支柱，我们确保每位社区成员都能建立安全繁荣的未来，同时扎根于定义我们社区的价值观和丰富文化。
在整个演讲中，我分享了体现“Bersatu Hati, Maju Bersama”（心连心，携手前进）精神的个人故事，他们各自成为灵感源泉。
Radzi先生和Risa女士向我们展示了坚实基础如何使家庭繁荣。Jumaini女士展示了致力于保护遗产如何成为对未来世代的宝贵贡献。Muhammad Nor Hafiz先生体现了在社区支持下，创业精神如何将愿望转化为成功和机遇。Latipah女士从参与者到志愿者协调员的旅程体现了接受支持与回馈社区的有意义循环，强化了我们的社区。
这些个人体现了“我们优先”的社会本质，个人发展促进集体进步，每一次服务行为都在社区中产生积极影响。这是我们希望社区每个人都能体现的精神。
展望未来，我们将继续通过建设有能力、值得信赖的机构加强支持，更重要的是，密切关注彼此关心的问题。
我们的真正力量在于集体精神，这种精神促使邻里互助，组织跨界合作，领导者涌现为更大利益服务。我们对共同的未来充满期待。让我们携手前进，心连心。[掌声]
主席：代理部长，有人要提问吗？Hazlina Abdul Rahim女士。
Hazlina Abdul Halim女士：感谢代理部长。您刚才分享了与中东学生的互动情况，能否也更新一下政府在朝觐季节前的早期规划？
副教授Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim博士：先生，感谢议员的追加问题。我分享了我们如何持续与中东的学生互动。事实上，我昨晚与他们进行了一个多小时的很好的交流。他们确实很关心，但主要询问应对建议和各种情景。我们也刚刚听到了Gan Siow Huang国务部长的讯息。
我传达给他们的信息是继续保持联系，互相关照。这是他们一直得到的支持。MUIS与他们紧密合作。许多人也经历了6月的事件。年长者比年轻者更能应对和管理这些情况。许多人也分享了他们如何继续上课。你会看到不同国家采取不同措施：有些线上授课，有些仍是面对面。
我还告诉他们要保持与家人的联系。正如预期，许多家人非常担忧。实际上，我建议他们多次更新信息。许多人每天向家人更新一次，我建议最多两次，以让家人和父母放心。
关于朝觐，如我所述，我们与AMTAS保持联系。AMTAS发布了与外交部（MFA）建议一致的公告。对于已在沙特阿拉伯的人，我敦促他们向外交部登记，以便在情况发展时及时获得更新。对于希望更改旅行计划的人，我感谢AMTAS一直与旅行社沟通，展现理解，帮助旅客审查、推迟或调整受影响的旅行安排。
关于朝觐，截至目前，我们与沙特阿拉伯朝觐与小朝觐部保持密切联系。迄今为止，2026年朝觐季节的所有准备工作均未受影响。因此，我们将密切关注最新进展。最重要的是，朝觐者的安全始终是我们的首要任务。
主席：赛义德·哈伦博士。
赛义德·哈伦·阿尔哈布西博士：主席，我感谢代理部长分享关于重新改造的马来文化遗产中心以及设立研究单位的情况。在某种程度上，我们是在回顾并希望保护马来社区的遗产和传统。但我想知道是否有举措能够庆祝、分享并展示我们独特的马来身份，让更多人了解，从而庆祝我们新加坡的多元文化。
穆罕默德·法伊沙尔·易卜拉欣副教授博士：先生，感谢议员的补充问题。您可以看到，马来文化遗产中心的扩展角色不仅仅是文化保护。它将展示新加坡马来身份如何发展成为真正独特的存在。这既根植于深厚的马来身份和传统视角，但我们必须认识到，我们的身份正是在多元文化环境中独特且精准地形成的。正因如此，许多马来人在多个领域表现出色，积极贡献，无论种族、语言或宗教如何，同时他们也深深扎根于我们的文化和信仰。这种平衡正是新加坡马来人与众不同之处。
如果您关注非物质文化遗产导师计划，它将帮助我们继续这段旅程。多年来，我们建立了构建社区和国家的过程，您可以看到马来社区中体现新加坡整体价值观的某些价值观，如自决、开放和韧性。这使得马来社区能够在保持传统和身份的同时，继续努力取得成功并在生活中表现卓越。
我们也正在设立研究单位。研究单位将关注这段旅程的各个方面，包括遗产传统、艺术文化、文化历史和南洋文化。其中一些将为包括非马来人在内的民众提供参与这段旅程的机会，共享我们国家建设的喜悦。
这是一件令人兴奋的事情，是我们共同建设的。我希望能与社区深化这段旅程。我的期望是，任何访问马来文化遗产中心或参与该计划的人都会知道，这是一个独特的新加坡马来身份，已经发展进步，是我们应当自豪的。
主席：萨克提安迪·苏帕特先生。
萨克提安迪·苏帕特先生：主席，我可以用马来语提出第一个澄清问题吗？
（马来语）：[请参见方言发言。]主席，关爱我们的长者不仅仅是关于项目，更是关于在家庭和社区中强化尊重、责任和同情等价值观。因此，我欢迎部长描述的帮助长者的整体方法。
我想问，这个项目的预算和资源是否可以获得某种刺激，以涵盖清真寺和其他场所的基础设施费用，因为新加坡人口老龄化非常迅速，改善这些设施至关重要。
其次，Santunan Emas援助是否会考虑社区中的照顾者，特别是“夹心一代”？
（英语）：第二个澄清问题，主席，部长提到了MENDAKI成就计划，涉及人工智能探索和机器人技术。我想知道部长是否能分享更多信息，是否可以增强和增加MENDAKI的预算和资源，以便扩大这些努力，尤其是在政府今年预算中谈及人工智能任务和人工智能冠军的背景下。那么，在马来/穆斯林社区内，我们是否也能获得额外预算用于这类课程？
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穆罕默德·法伊沙尔·易卜拉欣副教授博士：先生，感谢议员的补充问题。
关于第二个补充问题，涉及充实内容，如果您查看MENDAKI 2030工作计划，您会看到不仅涉及教育，还有我们如何支持工人在人工智能旅程中，为社区未来做准备的内容。
正如所分享的，该计划由国务部长拉哈尤领导，“数字步伐”是另一个领域，为我们提供了扩大影响力的机会，以帮助社区。
我也非常欣慰，不仅MENDAKI开展的项目能够触及民众，我们多年来建立的专业网络也显著增长。我们中的一些人或所有人可能参加过专业网络的一些项目。我非常欣慰，我参加过一次航空业的活动。过去专业人士并未参与此类互动。如今，他们参与其中，提供额外的动力和支持。这不仅仅是资金问题。
我认为，在发展社区的过程中，我们必须尽可能引入外部资源。尤其是那些取得成功的人，回馈社会，指导、培养并激励我们的每一个孩子，甚至仍在工作的人，拥有进一步发展的志向。
关于第一个问题。
（马来语）：[请参见方言发言。]关于第一个问题，Santunan Emas项目是一个自下而上的整体项目。但有趣的是，该项目与综合护理机构和国大医院健康集团等组织或机构合作。
当我听到这个项目时，收到反馈说它非常吸引人，激发了长者的兴趣。他们告诉我，他们希望听到乌斯塔兹·法特里斯的宗教讲道或鼓励的话语，我认为这非常有吸引力。
进一步了解后，我发现该项目不仅仅是宗教内容，还提供生活指导，如如何照顾健康、照顾者及其家庭成员，以及如何为我们的黄金岁月做准备。我认为这是一个非常好的平台，帮助我们扩大影响力。
因此，正如我所说，我已指示伊斯兰宗教理事会和人民协会MESRA部门研究如何支持这项工作，以便我们能够接触更多社区成员，帮助他们优雅地老去。
所以我同意萨克提安迪先生之前的说法，我们将扩大这种方法。我非常感谢所有启动该项目的人，因为他们起步时规模不大，未曾预见其潜力，但我们看到它能够激发兴趣并为长者提供发展机会。
我也从妻子那里听说过这个项目。她告诉我，她的朋友们喜欢参加，获得社区支持。我也听说过达鲁古夫兰清真寺的项目并参加过，看到其非常积极的影响。因此，我们将努力照顾好我们的长者。
主席：我们实际上已经用了很多澄清时间。如果我可以请求议员们的宽容，因为还有近六位议员举手提问，我建议我们推迟此环节，因为我担心如果不这样做，文化、社区及青年部的其他削减和澄清问题可能会全部占用时间。
我们今天将牺牲休息时间。我将节省20分钟。所有这些澄清问题，让我们推迟到其他削减议题结束后再处理。请求议员和部长的宽容。马克·李先生。
国家信心与身份认同
马克·李（提名议员）：主席，当我们今天谈论社会凝聚力时，更深层的问题不仅是我们相处得多好，而是新加坡人对我们正在成为的身份有多自信。
新加坡正经历两大转变。外部，世界变得更加不确定、竞争激烈且极化。内部，新加坡人，尤其是年轻一代，更积极思考身份、声音、公平和归属感。这些转变意味着，今天的社会凝聚力不再仅仅是共存，而是人们是否感受到共同身份的归属感。
在此背景下，我欢迎文化、社区及青年部明确决定将多元文化主义定位为新加坡身份的锚点。它承认新加坡一直开放且不断发展，凭借强烈的自我认知，我们可以保持开放而不感到不安。
但如果多元文化主义是我们的锚点，关键问题是新加坡人如何在日常生活中体验和体现这一锚点。
今天成为新加坡华人、新加坡马来人、新加坡印度人、欧亚裔意味着什么？这不是过去固定的类别，而是由共同经历、共同价值观和参与现代新加坡塑造的身份。我们的艺术、体育、遗产空间和青年平台如何帮助人们内化这种身份，而不仅仅是让身份被零散或外部叙事隐性塑造？
这很重要。当身份表达不足或感受不到时，即使表面和谐，仍会产生悲观情绪和隐形的社会疏离。
因此，除了实施强有力的个别举措外，文化、社区及青年部如何有意塑造一个连贯的叙事，定义我们今天作为新加坡人的身份，增强对多元文化身份的信心和共享归属感，尤其是在年轻一代中？部委如何评估其工作是否加强了这种深层次的、基础性的长期社会凝聚力？
主席：瓦莱丽·李女士。抱歉，亚历克斯·严先生。
让学校体育更易参与
亚历克斯·严先生：主席，体育不仅仅是竞争和奖牌，它为年轻人培养韧性、团队合作、纪律和健康习惯。然而，许多学生今天发现很难加入学校的课外活动（CCA），除非他们已经具备一定水平的能力。
选拔非常激烈，名额有限。因此，一些仅想尝试新事物或休闲参与的学生，发现自己完全被排除在学校体育之外。这有可能使参与范围缩小到已有技能的学生，而体育的成长性恰恰在于让更多年轻人体验。
文化、社区及青年部能否分享如何与教育部合作，扩大学校体育的参与度，使参与不仅服务于竞技卓越，也促进青少年发展？
例如，是否有计划扩大休闲层级、模块化项目或学习路径，让学生无需通过竞争选拔即可学习一项运动？这样的路径可以让学生先发现兴趣、建立信心，再决定是否认真追求该运动。
体育也是年轻新加坡人不同能力和背景自然互动的空间。当学生一起训练和比赛时，他们学习合作、坚持和相互尊重。在建设“我们优先”的社会中，这种共享经历非常重要。
学校体育应既是卓越之路，也是广泛参与的平台。
因此，我希望部长能分享政策如何更好地平衡这些目标，同时确保学生福祉和学业平衡得到保障。
体育与户外活动——塑造我们的青年
瓦莱丽·李女士（巴西立-樟宜）：主席，体育和户外教育在塑造青年的韧性、自信和归属感方面发挥着重要作用。
我曾公开表示，我曾是国家青年保龄球队成员。但除了那段经历，我的体育之旅始于与父亲在社区中心打篮球，以及在学校课间与朋友一起玩。后来我参加了学校的保龄球、标枪和铅球比赛，成年后开始工作时，也有攀岩墙上的“亚历克斯·霍诺德时刻”。
留给我印象深刻的不是成就或奖牌，而是纪律、团队合作和坚持的教训。
对许多青年而言，体育提供了一个建设性的第三空间，在那里他们建立身份、友谊和韧性。研究也发现，定期参与体育的青年报告的生活满意度显著高于不活跃的同龄人，且压力水平较低。
在议会中，我们常关注奥运会、重大赛事和精英表现。这些很重要，我们应继续支持高水平运动员。但如果关注过于狭窄，我们可能忽视了更广泛的基础，许多青年在其中有意义地参与。
我感觉，国家体育协会（NSA）代表的运动员中，未能进入奥运的运动员人数远多于我们常强调的少数运动。许多运动，如触球球、轮滑、龙舟等，由充满热情的社区维系，其中许多是青年。这些平台可能没有奥运地位，但它们发挥着重要的发展作用。
我想问，部委如何支持这些拥有大量青年参与的运动？我们是否可以考虑设立适度的种子基金，帮助较小的国家体育协会提升能力？政府是否可以在促进学校等设施的课后使用方面发挥更大作用？
如果我们真心相信体育是青少年发展的工具，那么机会的广度应与领奖台成果同等重要。
体育塑造青年于熟悉的社区空间，户外教育则塑造他们于陌生环境。我是户外挑战学校（OBS）的受益者，曾在中三参加为期五天的OBS课程，后来又回到乌敏校区参加更长的课程，最后一次是在韩国山区。这些经历在身体和心理上挑战我，加强了我对团队合作和自然的欣赏——这些教训伴随我进入成年。
我很欣慰政府将OBS推广至每位中三学生。但随着扩展推进，我想问，OBS新加坡的下一个里程碑是什么？在加强本地访问的同时，我们是否也可以考虑以适度方式扩展更多海外OBS体验？接触不同地形和文化能以国内环境无法比拟的方式拓展青年视野。
虽然OBS仍是国家基石，继续支持其他户外教育提供者，与户外探险教育理事会等合作，将加强更广泛的生态系统，扩大不同兴趣和需求青年的参与。
[副议长（克里斯托弗·德·苏扎先生）主持]
主席，体育塑造青年的韧性，户外教育培养坚韧的自信和品格。通过扩大对多样体育参与的支持和深化户外教育的下一阶段，我们投资的不是项目或设施，而是新加坡的未来。
管理共享空间与体育需求
吴诗琪女士（蒙巴顿）：主席，我相信本议院每位议员都意识到，随着匹克球在社区日益流行，随之而来的摩擦也不少。
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我刚成为议员时，就收到一些来自球员和居民的非常愤怒的投诉。说实话，这是一项噪音较大的运动。
不同选区采取了不同措施。有的限制了打球时间，有的则完全禁止。但紧张局势不仅限于组屋区。我也收到过私人俱乐部场地的匹克球噪音投诉。
在我的选区，我一直推动所谓的80%解决方案。我在家访时遇到蒙巴顿居民保琳·陈女士，她是一名竞技匹克球选手。她向我展示了一套泡沫匹克球。她是非常体贴的邻居，开始使用泡沫球，因为它们能显著降低噪音。
我们社区球场的变化非常明显。我们组织了一个试点社区活动，推广泡沫球。我们免费发放泡沫球给许多球员，并组织了一场使用泡沫球的“隐形”静音匹克球活动。
但这只是80%的解决方案，因为不可能让所有人满意。一些球员抵制泡沫球，觉得手感不同，不适合比赛。他们乐于接受免费泡沫球，但不会使用。这很讽刺，因为我们的社区球场本身也不符合比赛标准。另一方面，一些居民觉得这还不够，宁愿完全禁止匹克球。
政治学中有正权利和负权利的概念。我们对匹克球的争议可以成为两者冲突的经典案例。玩耍的权利与安静的权利相冲突。政治学家会告诉你，这是零和游戏。
在我们这样密集的城市中，任何一方的权利都不能绝对。我们必须以妥协和互让的框架来处理。这是维护社会和谐的唯一途径。社区体育参与度在增长，邻里和街区级设施需求上升。我们应欢迎这一趋势，但正如所见，它也可能成为社区内的分歧源，而非纽带。
所以，这不仅仅是为了满足需求。将我们社区中许多利用率不高的空间改造成更多的匹克球场，或者其他运动场地，其实非常容易。但最方便的地方未必是最好的，甚至未必是合适的地方。噪音和人流会成为问题吗？会不会打扰到邻里的居民？选定的地点能否控制噪音？我们应该吸取教训，提前缓解这些矛盾。
我们最不希望做的，就是在社区中制造更多的矛盾和不满。在这种情况下，我希望文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）能提供关于社区中新体育设施推广的最新情况，以及我们如何规划以满足社区层面日益增长的需求？MCCY是否以预见并解决此类摩擦的方式来应对设施需求？
匹克球场的新地点
林占武副教授（盛港）：匹克球在新加坡掀起了一股热潮。这项运动现在拥有至少5,000名认真参与的球员，还有更多的休闲玩家。它很可能会变得更加流行。虽然许多人享受运动带来的身体和社交益处，但投诉也层出不穷。有些人抱怨共享球场的使用时间有限，另一些人则反对噪音问题。
针对收到的数百起噪音投诉，一些市镇理事会选择限制比赛时间或完全禁止比赛。然而，也有许多人强烈游说扩大开放时间。利益冲突让这位议员感觉自己像匹克球一样被来回击打。
我建议允许将多层停车场中利用率较低的次顶层改造成匹克球场。通常这些地方空间充足，且天花板能限制向上传播的噪音。为了进一步控制噪音，可以沿周边安装可伸缩的隔音帘。
已有将现有基础设施改造为匹克球场的先例。社区俱乐部的室内羽毛球场上已划有匹克球线，允许双重使用。小印度巴士总站的部分区域也将改造为八个匹克球场。
有人反对，认为这样做会有机会成本，因为这些停车位可能带来潜在收入。这有时是国土发展部（MND）对将停车位改作其他用途（如社区花园）请求的回应。但在许多新兴住宅区，包括盛港，这些停车位已经利用不足，几乎总是空着。放弃收入的机会成本完全是想象的。此外，即使在某些时期如假日访客增多时，访客停车需求上升，也可以轻松安装可开合的挡杆，在需要时开放通行。
另一个安全方面的反对意见是，停车场超出其指定用途可能会影响安全。盛港市镇理事会向MND提出此建议时，MND的回应是：“匹克球及其他娱乐活动目前并非组屋停车场的批准用途，因为组屋多层停车场主要设计和建造用于停车。”
但多层停车场已经被用于其他功能。例如，临时办公空间如组屋工地办公室有时设在上层。还有适用于部分多层停车场的快递枢纽计划。针对我在2021年提出的国会质询，时任MND部长李显龙表示，组屋多层停车场原则上开放用于社会公共设施的替代用途。
第三个反对意见是，标准匹克球场通常要求至少五米的高度。但包括盛港在内的多层停车场满足这一要求。虽然五米净空对专业球场更为理想，但休闲玩家可能对较低高度也能接受。
因此，虽然目前尚未批准，但有充分理由在多层停车场设立匹克球场。让我们为球员和非球员——也许还有长期受苦的议员们——实现这一目标。
全民免费力量训练
刘武扬先生（非选区议员）：主席，跑步只需要一双鞋。你走出门就能跑。没有会员费，没有排队，也不必去健身房。力量训练没有类似的便利，我今天想说明它应该有。科学研究明确表明，力量训练不仅仅适合肌肉发达的健美运动员，而是适合所有人。骨密度在30岁左右达到峰值，之后逐渐下降。
有氧运动能减缓骨密度下降，但力量训练有潜力逆转这一趋势。它能增强骨骼、肌肉，降低跌倒和骨折风险，这是单靠有氧运动无法做到的。世界卫生组织建议所有成年人每周进行两次全身力量训练。我认为大多数新加坡人未达到这一目标。我个人来说，女儿六个月前出生前，我每周去健身房两三次。
她出生后，我总共去健身房不到10次，不是因为不想去，而是往返各需15分钟，30分钟的路程让年轻父亲难以抽出时间。如果我家楼下有阻力训练站，我肯定每隔一天就会用。我不是唯一的。老年居民需要保持肌肉和骨密度，初学者在商业健身房不知从何开始，时间紧张的家长。障碍对每个人不同，但本质相同。
Active SG健身房值得肯定。它们价格合理，分布广泛，设备齐全，但需要专程前往。你得查看是否满员，且高峰时段常需排队使用器械。对许多从未踏入健身房的人来说，注册和陌生环境是他们无法逾越的障碍。
我们的健身角可以弥补这一差距。全国有超过3,400个健身角，免费且遍布住宅区和公园。许多已配备力量训练设备，但有效的力量训练需要渐进式超负荷，即随着力量增强能增加阻力。初学者从5公斤开始，逐渐增加到20、30、40公斤。可变阻力器械能实现这一点，但目前我们的健身角大多不具备。
相反，它们主要配备促进灵活性和固定阻力的器械。目前的健身角服务的群体有限。我们应提升其功能，因此我对部提出三点建议。
第一，率先示范。体育新加坡（Sports SG）已直接管理10个社区体育设施，未来还会增加。可以先升级这些设施，新建设施从一开始就纳入可变阻力设备。
第二，应与国家公园局（NParks）合作，在公园健身角更新或升级时加入可变阻力设备。
第三，对于由市镇理事会管理的组屋健身角，应制定国家框架，设定预审标准、推荐供应商，并通过体育新加坡提供联合资助渠道，使市镇理事会能在无需全面采购的情况下升级设施。
主席，有氧健身本质上易于接触，让我们也让力量训练同样易于接触。
整合国家青年体育学院、新加坡体育学院和新加坡体育学校
任泽明先生：主席，去年财政预算案中，部宣布对高性能体育生态系统进行重要重组，包括将国家青年体育学院、体育学院和体育学校整合为高性能体育学院（HPSI）。
部也提及未来将整合HPSI和体育学校。这是重大结构调整。多年来，新加坡体育领域涉及多个机构，覆盖运动员从青少年识别到精英表现的不同阶段。
整合的目的是打造更一体化的系统，更有效支持运动员发展。部长能否更新整合进展？新结构如何强化运动员发展路径，确保从青少年潜力到精英表现的顺畅过渡？系统如何更好协调教练、体育科学和运动员管理，确保有潜力的年轻运动员获得持续支持？
同时，我想了解部如何确保体育卓越与教育和福祉平衡，因为许多年轻运动员必须兼顾训练和学业？
最后，从运动员、教练和家长角度看，迄今有哪些改进？MCCY和体育新加坡如何确保整合减少机构间碎片化，最终带来新加坡代表队更强的长期成果？我期待部长更新新结构的形成情况。
加强对国家体育协会的支持
林杰克逊先生（义顺）：主席，我声明本人为一国家体育协会副主席。体育在国家认同、社区健康和青少年发展中扮演重要角色。新加坡在国际舞台取得显著成就，基层体育参与也在增长。
但若深入观察体育生态系统的机构支柱——国家体育协会（NSA），存在值得关注的结构性压力。
近期公开报道显示，体育的私人赞助仍有限。2023年体育捐款约为1,300万新元，占新加坡慈善捐款总额不到1%。许多NSA和运动员承认难以获得持续的企业支持。这意味着协会仍高度依赖政府补助和短期拨款。
NSA主要由志愿者运营，MCCY在国会表示，体育新加坡和新加坡国家奥委会正努力加强其治理和运营能力。这是重要认可，但也凸显许多协会秘书处规模精简，专业深度有限。
此外，体育新加坡的资金与治理和战略规划要求挂钩。目前，63个合资格NSA中有45个获得资金，需满足能力标准。虽然这促进问责，但也意味着机构能力较弱的协会难以获得稳定的多年支持，加剧脆弱循环。
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在此背景下，运动员和NSA领导的反馈持续指出结构性限制：因资金不确定难以留住教练人才；难以建立精英层以外的稳健运动员发展路径；体育科学资源有限；伤害预防和持续基层推广不足。
若期望NSA扩大参与、强化保障标准、发展青少年管道及支持高性能目标，单次项目拨款可能不足。
我因此询问部长，MCCY是否近期对NSA能力进行评估，了解不仅是资金短缺，还有哪些结构性缺口阻碍长期发展？除周期性拨款外，MCCY是否考虑探索多年核心资金框架或合作模式，增强NSA组织稳定性？
面对人口老龄化和持续的身体不活动挑战，MCCY将提供哪些额外结构支持，帮助NSA扩大社区参与，安全且可持续地拓宽参与度？
若体育要继续作为国家福祉和认同支柱，我们的NSA不仅需有热情，更需具备稳定性、专业性和长期韧性。
维持艺术和体育生态系统
许国贤副教授（提名议员）：谢谢主席。在这个变化剧烈的世界，我们必须同样有意识地投资艺术、体育和文化生态系统，因为它们是塑造我们作为新加坡人的人文和社会基础。
在人工智能主导的世界，创意工作、体育和文化不会消失。它们将成为更有价值的独特人类追求。
请允许我提出四点。
第一，关于艺术和体育从业者的可持续性。两个领域中，单靠天赋不足以达到卓越。从业者必须经济上有保障。许多艺术家和运动员面临收入不确定，职业生涯短暂，收入来源不稳定，支持负担常落在家庭。
艺术领域，许多从业者是自由职业者或从事多元职业。但要维持高水平工作，他们必须具备专业能力，保护和维持其作品。
针对自雇艺术家，MCCY是否考虑加强咨询和支持平台，帮助他们更好地应对合同谈判，保护知识产权和权益，这些是自由职业者易受影响的领域？
对于运动员，鉴于运动生涯有限，MCCY已设立体育卓越商业（spexBusiness）和体育卓越教育（spexEducation）等重要计划支持双重职业路径。但部是否考虑进一步加强职业转型支持？可包括赞助管理、个人品牌建设和创业等模块，帮助国家运动员在竞技生涯后更好自立。
财务可行性对传统文化企业也很重要。随着老字号企业关闭，MCCY是否考虑设立针对性传承支持计划，提供咨询、指导和过渡规划，帮助传统文化企业可持续传承？
主席，辩论中我们多次谈及生活成本。让我们确保生活成本上升不阻碍新加坡人在这些领域追求才华。
第二，关于艺术和体育参与。充满活力的艺术和体育文化依赖广泛参与。广泛基础有助强化人才管道。我对社区空间的艺术项目和国家运动员在社区的展示感到鼓舞。这些举措将文化和体育融入日常生活。
2025年预算中推出的SG文化通行证旨在鼓励更多艺术参与。我欢迎部更新使用情况——是否触及新观众，提升常态参与。
同样，部是否考虑试点基于参与的机制，如SG体育通行证，将资金专门用于经认证教练提供的项目？这不仅能扩大结构化体育参与，也激励教练认证和能力提升，增强许多作为小企业运营的教练的可持续性。
第三，关于增强生态系统融资。2024年，体育和艺术仅占慈善捐赠总额的3.9%，显示有很大空间吸引持续私人支持，正如林杰克逊议员所指出。
我欢迎总理预算中宣布将对符合条件的公益机构（IPC）捐赠延长250%税务扣除至2029年12月。但我们可以做更多，激励企业和私人捐赠者持续支持艺术和体育。
为此，政府是否考虑将长期支持这些领域的捐赠税务扣除提高至400%，鉴于其对国家韧性和团结的重要性？支持多年捐赠承诺并给予更高扣除的结构，将为艺术团体和体育组织提供规划确定性。
如果我们愿意激励技术能力投资以增强经济竞争力，也应有意识激励加强凝聚力的文化投资。
第四，关于展现国家认同。艺术和体育不仅让我们在国内团结，也向世界展示我们是谁。
正如运动员在国际大赛自豪地升起新加坡国旗，MCCY是否考虑制定策略，支持高潜力艺术和文化团体在世界顶级舞台和国际节庆中表演？
当我们的艺术家和创作者在国际平台展示作品，有助于展现我们作为国家的自信。如果我们为身份感到自豪和自信，也应以同样的自信向世界展示。
主席，建设未来经济的同时，我们也必须建设未来社会，帮助我们在不确定时代中茁壮成长。韧性社会投资于凝聚力。回报不总是体现在经济数字，但会反映在我们作为国家共享的自豪感中。
奥克斯利 - 国家纪念碑
丹戎巴葛选区的Joan Pereira女士：去年12月，我们开国总理李光耀位于奥克斯利路38号的故居被正式列为国家古迹。今年1月，政府开始收购该地块的程序。
随着政府推进将该地块开发为公共空间，重要的是在整个规划过程中要兼顾国家遗产需求，体现对该地块尊严的敏感和尊重，同时考虑邻近居民的关切和需求。毕竟，对于邻居来说，他们将是这项开发影响最大的群体。
奥克斯利路38号的历史意义毋庸置疑。遗址保护与古迹咨询委员会评估该地具有强烈的国家意义，见证了20世纪50年代标志我国从殖民统治走向独立的关键事件。正是在这里，我们的开国领导人进行了决定性的讨论，奠定了我国的治理基础。
另一方面，我们也应注意到奥克斯利路38号并非孤立存在。它位于一个安静且成熟的住宅区内。周边居民的日常生活将直接受到该地从私人住宅转变为公共遗产空间的影响。
自政府宣布拟将该地列为古迹以来，居民们纷纷向我表达了他们的关切。
首先是交通拥堵。奥克斯利路是一条狭窄的双车道道路，已作为乌节路与河谷路之间的主要通道，承载着繁重的车辆流量。多位居民担忧，将该地转为公共空间可能会带来大量车辆、旅游巴士和行人，正如一位居民所言，“这里并非为此目的而建”。
其次是非法停车。居民指出，长期以来非居民使用他们的私人停车位，因入口处缺乏门禁或安保措施。如果该地吸引大量访客，他们将在哪里停车？
第三是人流带来的影响——噪音、人群以及对该住宅区宁静氛围的干扰。居民回忆起2017年围绕该地未来的公开争议期间访客激增的情形，担心未来会有更大规模且更持久的类似情况。他们理解并同意让访客，包括未来世代，参观并了解该地的重要性，但也担忧该地会失去应有的尊严感。
这些并非抽象的担忧，而是切实的日常现实，应当得到应有的重视。
解决这些问题需要政府整体协作。作为负责该地保护与开发的主责部委，文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）需与相关部委和机构密切规划协调。
交通部必须参与交通管理、停车方案及公共交通接入的工作。应认真研究诸如指定替代出入口、设立旅游巴士上下客区以及改善奥克斯利路沿线人行基础设施等建议。
国土发展部需处理建筑及住宅区维护问题。周边物业已趋老化。居民希望列为古迹后，周边住宅区能得到升级，包括步道和基础设施的改善。还有规划管制及高度限制是否调整的问题，这将影响居民的财产权利和利益。
贸易及工业部必须努力减少旅游带来的不便。如果该地被开发为遗产公园，必须谨慎管理访客流量、开放时间及商业活动，确保邻里住宅区的特性得以保留。物业顾问指出，规划者需确保有足够的汽车及旅游巴士停车位和上下客区。
我最重要的观点是——居民不应在决策后才被告知。他们必须从一开始就参与决策的形成。政府应与周边居民建立有结构的、定期的咨询渠道。这不应是一次性的反馈，而应贯穿规划、设计、建设及运营各阶段的持续对话。
将奥克斯利路38号列为国家古迹，是保护新加坡开国历史、惠及后代的重要举措。但若在邻里中开发古迹而无缓解措施，可能成为分裂而非团结的源头。
让我们以新加坡方式建设这一遗产空间——通过细致规划、跨部门协调，最重要的是，与最直接受影响的居民建立真诚伙伴关系。
我们的遗产振兴
丹戎巴葛选区的傅哲祥先生：主席，丹戎巴葛-中峇鲁是许多新加坡故事的发源地。我们在中峇鲁拥有首个社区中心，在丹戎巴葛广场设有最早的居民委员会之一，心爱的中峇鲁市场坐落于美丽的战前公共组屋区；丹戎巴葛则有族群协会林立的店屋，与最早的混合用途公共组屋丹戎巴葛广场相邻，再与高达55层的The Pinnacle @ Duxton相映成趣——很快将被60层的珍珠山组屋（BTO）超越。
主席，这些不仅是建筑设施，更承载着多代居民的故事，是记忆、文化和身份的活生生载体。然而，遗产本身无法自我维系。若要有意义，必须不断更新并与新一代分享。
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如今，我们的社区居住着许多新家庭、年轻居民和国际群体，他们可能不了解早期居民的故事。我一直致力于刷新我们的遗产，连接丹戎巴葛-中峇鲁的各代人。
我希望政府支持更多社区主导的项目，将长者、青年和新居民聚集起来，通过遗产步道、跨代讲故事项目，以及与学校和公民机构的合作，共同重新发现这些故事。让遗产成为生活的一部分，成为连接过去、现在与未来世代的桥梁——共同实现我对丹戎巴葛、中峇鲁的愿景：成为一个每代人都能在新加坡故事中找到归属的活跃社区。
主席：陈艾丽莎女士，请将您的两段发言一并发表。
共同支持草根倡议
碧山-大巴窑选区的陈艾丽莎女士：主席，面对当今动荡的世界，新加坡不能容许一代人退缩于互助。在国内，我们超高龄人口、复杂的社会需求和日益减弱的社会联系，给社会和医疗部门带来压力。
在我的预算演讲中，我谈到社区网络如何防止孤立。在碧山，母亲们在游乐场聚会，轮流举办游戏日，互相支持。在碧山社区俱乐部，一群年轻寡妇组成“希望群”，确保没有寡妇孤单前行。她们如大象般结群，让母亲和孩子们共同哀悼与疗愈。
年轻人也在积极行动。莱佛士城扶轮青年服务团开展社区项目，并与吉隆坡的姐妹团体展开跨境合作，包括首届东盟青年领袖交流。
这些草根努力表明我们的社区已具备深厚的社会资本。只要获得信任和支持，居民便会主动承担责任，支持家庭，抗击孤立，增强心理健康。持续且门槛低的资金支持将极大助力。
政府是否会通过5000万新元的新加坡伙伴关系基金，为青年和家长主导的草根项目设立专项支持并简化申请流程？鉴于租赁和弱势社区的需求，政府是否考虑将基金扩大至1亿新元？
时间银行促进社区繁荣
主席，在预算演讲中，我谈到抗击社会孤立的方法之一是时间银行——志愿者通过帮助他人赚取积分，日后可用来换取他人帮助。
这一理念在其他国家已有成功案例。日本的“触爱券”让志愿者通过照顾老人赚取积分。瑞士圣加仑的“时间储备”，由联邦社会保险局支持，将志愿服务时间计入社会保障账户以备未来使用。这些项目已持续数十年，支持社区照护。
新加坡快速老龄化社会也需要类似机制。我们可以与社区共同设计。文化、社区及青年部下的政府伙伴关系办公室可先试点小规模时间银行或社区货币实验，再决定如何全国推广。
时间银行赋予尊严，因为没有人是被动受益者，每个人都有贡献。倾听、探访和辅导等技能，常由女性无偿提供，也因此获得认可。它还强化了相互依赖：今天帮助邻居，明天有人会帮助你。
时间银行也具有民主性。正如我在预算演讲中分享的，艾因是一位母亲，志愿探访住院邻居一小时，其价值与律师在法律诊所志愿一小时相当。
政府是否会试点时间银行，让新加坡人通过时间积分交换技能和支持？是否可利用现有数字平台如Giving.sg承载？若不可，政府是否在探索其他加强邻里互助的方式？
主席：何德仁副教授，请将您的两段发言一并发表。
文化通行证
何德仁副教授（提名议员）：主席，人工智能时代，艺术与文化将愈发重要。我很高兴前提名议员何德仁提出的“新加坡文化通行证”已推出。我希望艺术能成为新加坡人生活的常态，与体育并重。对此，我想问文化部是否计划定期为ActiveSG积分和文化通行证充值，让新加坡人在身心上保持健康。
文化通行证涵盖遗产、视觉艺术、戏剧、音乐、舞蹈、电影及新加坡文学等多种活动。若能鼓励新加坡人尝试不同于以往的艺术形式，将非常美好。例如，能否促使遗产爱好者首次走进剧场？
假设文化通行证会定期充值，我建议对首次在新类别使用文化通行证积分者提供折扣或额外积分。可与参与的艺术和遗产机构协商折扣方案。
支持本地书店
主席，我声明本人为已出版书籍的作者。经济合作与发展组织2022-2023年第二轮国际成人能力评估显示，新加坡在31国中识字能力排名第18。但研究也发现35岁后识字能力显著下降。虽然其他国家也有年龄相关能力下降，但新加坡尤为明显。
这令人担忧，因为识字能力反映处理新信息的能力。为促进识字等，我建议加强新加坡文学基础设施和生态系统，给予本地出版社和书店更多支持。
我记得过去新加坡各地都有书店——从远东广场的二手书店到史丹福路的MPH旗舰店。
虽然出版和发行模式随时代变迁，我们不能期待书店密度如昔，但书店仍有其独特价值。它们是发现新作者的场所，常有意外收获，浏览最新书籍，接触全球流行思想。从这个角度看，书店可视为促进阅读、支持出版生态的公共资源，补充公共图书馆。
独立书店尤为重要，能提升本地作家能见度，成为本地文学爱好者的自然聚集地。可通过资助支持书店举办读书会和讲座，或协助设计适合举办此类活动的空间。商业开发商若出租场地给满足特定社区目标的书店，或可获额外建筑面积奖励。
艺术的可持续发展
非选区议员庄佩珊女士：主席，我作为热衷戏剧的本地观众发言。从数据看，我们的艺术生态似乎得到支持且健康。公共部门成果报告显示遗产意识提升，艺术毕业生就业稳定，节庆和社区项目参与人数增长。文化配对基金自2014年起已发放逾4亿新元。去年，每位18岁以上新加坡人获发100新元文化通行证积分。
但若艺术生态如此受支持，为何仍显脆弱？Substation已于2021年关闭，去年Projector关闭，上月Pangdemonium宣布16年后最后一季。每个关闭背后有各自原因，但当有业绩和忠实观众的成熟团体无法维系或因条件苛刻选择停业，这不仅是个别决策。
这或反映生态系统仍然紧绷，数据支持此观点：90%的艺术组织规模小；一半艺术文化从业者为自由职业，项目制工作。国家艺术理事会（NAC）提供的较易获得资助覆盖项目成本50%-70%，意味着每个制作都从赤字开始，需筹集剩余资金。艺术捐赠占新加坡慈善捐赠总额不足2%。
需求端存在悖论。2023年艺术人口调查显示，75%新加坡人认同艺术惠及社区，但仅30%消费本地艺术内容。调查还指出，童年接触艺术者成年后更可能重视、参与和倡导艺术。学生和青年已是演出现场出席率最高群体。数据揭示差距与机遇所在。
主席，我有两点建议。第一，设立小额资助支持小型社区艺术项目，简化管理要求，不以整体预算百分比限制。对小项目而言，这类资助可能决定项目能否成行。第二，让艺术对青年更实惠、更易接触。他们已是最积极的观众，应以持续、扩大和补贴的方式回应他们的热情。可扩大学生票价补贴，将文化通行证扩展至13至18岁学生，甚至探索用教育储蓄账户资金共付票价。
若我们相信艺术塑造品格、同理心和理解力，就应像对待教育和素质提升一样严肃对待艺术的可及性。
赋能自由艺术家
Gho Sze Kee女士：主席，我声明本人为执业律师。许多艺术从业者为自由职业，项目制工作。虽享独立性，但在议价、合同和使用权方面常处劣势，往往被动接受价格，吃亏较多。
文化、社区及青年部多年来在资金、人才培养、推广和能力建设方面支持艺术从业者，推动行业发展，强化艺术生态。但有一方面似乎稍显不足：法律支持。
自由职业者理解合同、知识产权和商业条款谈判不仅有用，更是必需。缺乏指导和支持，才华横溢的艺术家可能低价出售作品或签署不应放弃的权利。面对大型商业机构时尤为不利。
专业法律服务存在，但如我此前在议会指出，律师费用昂贵，影响他们收入，也影响艺术生涯的可持续性。
所以，我想问，文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）是否会考虑寻找方法，帮助自雇艺术从业者应对艺术商业化过程中的法律问题？这可以通过法律素养项目、合同模板或提供负担得起的法律咨询服务来实现。协助他们进行商业或法律谈判，对我们的艺术从业者也将大有帮助。
以这种方式支持他们，可以让他们专注于艺术创作并加强职业发展。归根结底，光有才华是不够的。艺术家需要被赋权来保护自己的作品，并以自己的条件进行谈判，这样我们的艺术生态系统才能持续繁荣。
未来是宽厚且年轻的
Hazlina Abdul Halim 女士：主席，我声明利益，我是伊顿社区基金（EtonHouse Community Fund，ECF）的首席执行官，该基金是一个关注培养儿童和青少年潜力的公益机构（IPC）慈善组织，同时我也是新加坡工商联合会基金会董事会成员。
我将谈及：培养自信的青年、积极的公民意识和自下而上的倡议，以及推动企业表现更好。
当代新加坡年轻人的生活境况令人同情。物质丰富，但许多人仍感到不足，甚至怀疑是否真的足够。
新加坡的年轻人必须相信他们在新加坡有一席之地和未来。去年，MCCY在全新加坡范围内与青年交流，制定了《新加坡青年行动计划》（SG Youth Action Plan）。我希望该计划能创造公平竞争环境，让每个年轻人都有机会，而不仅仅是少数人。
我们还应确保《新加坡青年行动计划》在设计上具有包容性，使有特殊需要或来自少数群体的青年不会被排除在领导力发展、社区参与和公民参与之外。我期待该计划的最新进展，尤其是有意培养自信的努力。
我希望MCCY能扩大这些工作的合作伙伴关系，特别是在指导和工作经验方面，与合作伙伴协作，让青年获得导师、实习和现实世界的机会。在东海岸集选区（GRC），我们有青年实习计划；我想今天有些学生也在议会中。
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当年轻人能看到通往有意义角色和未来机会的路径时，这会增强他们的自信和希望。我们的年轻人拥有宽广的胸怀。十多年前我在淡马锡理工学院任教时，带领过多次本地和国际服务旅行。我的学生不仅是行动的肢体，更是这些使命的心灵和灵魂。有些学生至今仍与我一起做志愿者。
我欢迎新的5000万新元《新加坡伙伴关系基金》，希望它能鼓励更多新加坡人参与比个人更大的事业。我期待更多细节，包括优先领域和对有意申请的新加坡人的支持。
作为在影响力领域工作近15年的人士，主席，我亲眼见证许多慈善和社区组织做着重要工作，但往往需要更多帮助。时间、才能和财富是该领域的货币。我欢迎延长对合资格捐款给予250%税务扣减的举措，以及企业志愿者计划，即员工志愿服务或被派遣至公益机构（IPC）至2029年。
这很有帮助，因为加强的筹款计划正在回落至疫情前水平，许多慈善朋友也向我表达了他们的担忧。
代理部长，MCCY有何计划与其他机构或部委合作，动员和激励企业参与，增强对企业捐赠及志愿服务的支持，鼓励企业关注利润以外的社会责任？
主席，最后，让我们从年轻人身上汲取灵感，他们拥有宽广的胸怀和强烈的社会正义感。有一句马来谚语说：“Pemuda harapan bangsa, pemudi tiang negara”，意为青年是民族的希望，是国家的支柱。正是这种信念，主席，将引领我们走向未来。
加强新加坡合作社
Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari 先生（提名议员）：主席，我声明利益，我的工会经营一个信用合作社，我也是新加坡国家合作社执行委员会成员。
合作社的成立源于新加坡人对自助和互助原则的坚定信念。这种团结精神将他们聚集在一起，提供提升会员和支持社区的服务。
在新加坡建国初期，合作社运动吸引了推动多项倡议的个人，包括提供负担得起必需品的消费合作社，以及提供便捷金融服务的储蓄和贷款合作社。因此，它们成为为工人和弱势群体提供负担得起的优质商品和服务的关键支柱。
这一宗旨至今未变。2025年合作社发起了22个新项目。结合“赋能社区基金”，合作社筹集了超过120万新元和志愿者，支持涵盖老年人、积极老龄化、照顾者和家庭，以及面临社会、情感和经济挑战的个人的项目，展现了它们持续与公共支持共同投资服务社区的承诺。
随着更多私营实体，包括全球品牌的竞争加剧，新加坡的合作社在吸引青年参与、人才吸引和留用方面面临挑战，以继续其使命。
此外，还有一个更广泛的问题，即如何鼓励成立新的合作社以满足新兴社区需求。最近制定的新加坡合作社运动十年转型路线图是一个良好的开端，明确了方向。
展望未来，部委能否分享如何支持合作社在社区参与、青年参与和简化新合作社成立方面的工作，使更多新加坡人能够采用合作社模式解决社区需求？将采取哪些措施鼓励合作社扩大规模并保持可持续发展？
部委是否考虑审查《合作社法》中的某些条款，以允许其运营更具灵活性，包括允许企业成立合作社，而非仅限个人和工会？
此外，部委能否通过审查当前中央合作基金的缴纳比例，确保其与现行企业税率相当，从而让合作社将节省的资金用于支持更多会员和社区？
主席，在快速变化的世界中，合作社建立在信任之上，由志同道合的人推动，提醒我们成功不仅以利润衡量，更在于提升了多少生命，保障了多少未来，共享了多少进步。
全民户外训练学校
Darryl David 先生（宏茂桥）：主席，户外训练学校（OBS）由吴庆瑞博士于1967年创立，旨在通过户外体验式学习培养坚韧、韧性、领导力和品格。这是早期国家建设努力的一部分，旨在为新加坡年轻人应对生活不确定性做好准备。OBS从乌敏岛起步，现已发展成为为青年提供品格和领导力课程的重要国家机构。
近年来，OBS扩大了影响力并升级了设施。根据国家户外探险教育总体规划，开发了新的OBS@Coney校区，预计全面运营后将显著提升OBS的年度接纳能力，强化政府对户外教育作为全面发展一部分的承诺。
如今，OBS体验与许多年轻人紧密相关，是培养韧性和社会凝聚力的重要成长仪式。
鉴于OBS的变革性影响，我们是否可以将其体验式学习模式扩展到那些青年时期未能参与的成年人？通过现有合作伙伴关系，OBS能否与基层网络合作，设计适合年长成人和社区团体的调整项目？
通过适当调整，我相信OBS的韧性和团队合作精神可以转化为易于接触的跨代体验，促进不同年龄、族群和社会群体间的联系。
此类合作有助于弥合代际差距，鼓励终身学习，创造加深社区纽带的共享体验。探索这些可能性将拓宽OBS在青年发展之外的角色，加强我们的社会结构，强化共同的新加坡身份认同。
繁荣第三空间的场所营造
Elysa Chen 女士：主席，在我的预算演讲中，我提议在我们的社区中心设立第三空间，供年轻人社交并获得心理健康支持。让我分享为何这很重要。
在爱尔兰，Jigsaw运营青年心理健康咖啡馆——低污名化的开放空间，显著降低了寻求帮助的障碍。在澳大利亚，Headspace结合了非正式聚会区和现场心理健康、工作及学习支持。这些模式之所以有效，是因为它们满足年轻人的实际需求，无需他们正式寻求帮助。
在新加坡，传统空间如组屋底层常贴有“禁止踢足球”标志，商场则要求消费，这可能阻碍年轻人将其作为第三空间使用。约三分之一的青年报告有严重心理健康症状，但84%的心理疾病未被诊断。我们需要社区中的中间空间，不是临床环境，而是年轻人可以玩耍、社交并及早获得支持的地方，防止病情恶化。
政府是否会在社区试点第三空间中心，将非正式聚会区与心理健康、指导和工作学习支持共置？MCCY是否会制定全国计划，将组屋底层和社区空间改造为免费、青年友好的空间，促进社交联系？
新加坡年轻人的空间
Eileen Chong Pei Shan 女士：主席，我想谈谈物理空间以及许多新加坡年轻人面临的孤独挑战。
2024年IPS调查发现，21至34岁的新加坡人面临最高程度的孤独和社会隔离。这不是新加坡独有的问题。去年，世界卫生组织社会联系委员会将孤独描述为紧迫的全球健康威胁。但在新加坡，这一问题严重且日益突出，与我们特有的空间关系密切相关。
新加坡是一个土地稀缺的国家，每平方米土地都必须体现其经济价值。我们不缺公共空间，有公园、社区中心和综合枢纽，如淡滨尼枢纽。但空间本身并不保证连接。规划空间与非结构化开放空间不同。我们的许多公共设施针对特定人群和目标设计，适合组织活动，但不利于自发相遇。
组屋底层直觉上理解这一点。它曾是整整一代新加坡人的默认第三空间，包括我自己。在那里，社区自发形成，无需组织或付费。但使组屋底层成为人们经过并停留的开放空间，现已被更结构化、有目的且不那么开放的设计取代。新组屋区趋向于将公共空间设于楼层间或楼顶，需要刻意访问，而非偶遇。
我邀请议会考虑，今天年轻人的默认第三空间是什么？他们在哪里可以无需预约、无活动安排、无最低消费，自然相遇，建立友谊，激发热情项目，形成公民纽带？年轻人已在尝试回答这个问题，如“FriendZone”和“随意诗人图书馆”等自发倡议，显示了对免费开放空间的需求，人们可以自在地存在。
主席，我们不能仅靠青年委员会和志愿服务推动“我们优先”的社会。我们需要物理空间来促进“我们”的形成——真正的聚集空间。因此，我希望MCCY能与国土部（MND）及年轻人合作，共同设计新一代开放、可及、非结构化的社区空间，视聚集和归属需求为基本社会基础设施，而非奢侈品。
国家认同与青年参与
Kenneth Poon 教授（提名议员）：主席，我欢迎部委持续投资青年参与平台、实习和就业路径。结合我们青年在国际基准测试中的优异学业表现，这些举措无疑有助于他们在日益竞争激烈的全球环境中做好经济参与准备。
我今天建议，培养青年未来能力还应包括培养他们的共同国家认同感。这在数字时代尤为重要，因为他们的价值观、抱负和归属感受到全球影响塑造。
国家调查，如卫生促进局的学生健康调查和国家青年理事会的全国青年调查，均显示青年面临压力、心理健康和生活压力问题。配合这些发现，国家心理健康研究表明，许多青年报告焦虑、抑郁或心理困扰症状。
研究如2020年联合国儿童基金会《东盟儿童数字生活》和信息通信媒体发展局的数字社会调查显示，今日青年高度数字连接，越来越多地通过网络环境接触各种信息、观点和社会影响。
一个多世纪前，社会学家埃米尔·涂尔干观察到，当个人所属的社会群体减弱时，人们越来越依赖自身。他的见解至今仍适用，青年在快速变化的社会和数字环境中塑造身份。研究显示，报告对国家或社区有较强归属感的青少年，在关键人生转折期表现出更高的幸福感、社会信任和韧性。
相反，若参与共享机构或社区生活的机会有限，青年可能在身份形成上感到更大不确定，这可能与较低的幸福感相关。参与公民或社区活动不仅有社会意义，还能促进支持长期幸福的心理社会结果。
身份形成不仅来自指导或项目参与，更源于共享责任、有意义的参与和发声机会。
下午3时45分
主席，在预算辩论中，我提出四个问题作为视角，考察举措如何加强新加坡社会基础。其中之一是公民在获得支持的过程中是否拥有有意义的发声权。针对青年，我想请部长分享政府如何构建青年参与社区或公民倡议的机会，以支持归属感和共同责任感的发展，以及这些机会如何促进青年对共享国家社区的连接感、贡献感和参与感。我期待部长对此的回应。
为每位青年设计归属感
Charlene Chen 博士（淡滨尼）：最近调查显示，新加坡年轻人比年长群体更感孤独。许多人表示面对面交流比线上更焦虑。
孤独不仅是情绪，它塑造身份。如果年轻人反复感到被忽视或边缘化，这种体验会成为他们看待自己及其社会地位的部分。问题不仅是如何开展更多项目，而是：我们是否设计了一个让连接变得容易而非艰难的日常新加坡？
我建议关注两个杠杆：空间和项目。
一位年轻人告诉我，当他感到压力大时，会去淡滨尼的滑板公园。他不是去参加结构化活动，而是因为那里让他感到被理解。这一细节很重要。
当滨海湾地铁站的镜面被磨砂处理时，舞者感到失落。那条连廊已悄然成为排练空间，是他们练习、建立友谊和共同进步的地方。滨海南码头地铁站提供镜面空间，承认了非正式空间的重要性。
这些例子说明了重要一点。年轻人不仅需要设施，更需要他们感到拥有权的地方。
青年告诉我，他们为图书馆座位竞争，或花钱在咖啡馆一起学习。社区俱乐部存在，但预约系统感觉正式、受成人控制或难以临时使用。如果我们的空间感觉遥远或程序化，年轻人就会退回房间和屏幕。
那么，试想这样一种情景。一名中学生放学后，通过一个应用程序预订了她所在社区俱乐部内一个带有两个水龙头的小型多功能房间。这个房间之所以可用，是因为某些非高峰时段被指定为青少年专用时间段。她和朋友们在这里排练舞蹈。隔壁，一群学生正在一起复习。一位邻居大叔通过社区平台匹配，顺道来进行一个小型辅导课程。
这些只是一些小的设计调整。但从青少年的角度来看，差别却很大。连接变得便利。参与成为常态。归属感变得本地化。
因此，我想请文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）审视那些利用率不高的房间，看看是否可以划出青少年专用时间段。试点简化且适合青少年的预订系统。在未来的社区升级中，纳入小型声学处理的多功能房间。这并不是要建造新的综合体，而是让现有基础设施更具青少年导向。
第二是活动编排。我们有资助、青少年组织和平台，但各项举措往往仍然零散。
一名中学生最近写信给我，询问是否可以张贴海报，帮助志愿音乐教师与缺乏学习机会的学生匹配。她的直觉是对的：当人们一起教、学和服务时，连接才会发生。但为什么她必须依赖于楼下空地的海报呢？
不妨设想：在现有社区应用中加入基于邻里的匹配功能。一名理工学院学生会拉小提琴，表示每周可志愿服务两小时。一名五年级学生因经济原因无法负担课程，报名参加。社区俱乐部促成匹配。基本的安全保障措施到位。他们每周见面。他们不再只是志愿者和学习者，而是成为同一个社区的一部分。归属感不再是消费，而是贡献。
因此，我想请问现有的MCCY或人民协会（PA）平台，是否可以纳入超本地化的志愿者与学习者匹配功能，涵盖体育、艺术和辅导领域；优先资助持续性的、由青少年主导的项目，而非一次性活动。
主席先生，归属感不能被年龄划分为孤岛。我们需要融合。当不同世代定期互动时，身份认同变成共享而非分裂。我也希望MCCY能考虑如何培养跨世代的交流融合。
主席先生，如果孤独感在上升，回应不仅仅是提供更多服务，而是更好的设计——设计易于访问的空间，设计将主动性与机会匹配的系统，设计奖励持续性的项目。
从青少年的角度来看，差别很简单。与其问“我能去哪儿？”，答案变得显而易见：“就在这里。”这就是设计归属感的意义，不是口号，而是日常现实。
塑造“我们优先”一代
严先生：主席先生，在“我们优先”的社会中，我们的青少年不仅是新加坡未来的受益者，更应是塑造未来的伙伴。
过去一年，MCCY与许多年轻新加坡人进行了交流。这些对话非常宝贵。但关键问题是，这些对话如何转化为持续的参与路径。
当代年轻新加坡人成长于截然不同的环境。他们面临经济不确定性、快速的技术变革以及数字世界的持续压力。陈博士刚才谈到了我们互联世界中的孤独感。
因此，MCCY如何装备我们的年轻人，使他们具备应对这些压力的韧性，同时保持对新加坡的共同责任感？年轻新加坡人有哪些机会能够有意义地参与社区建设、政策制定和社会服务？
例如，如何让我们的青少年更积极地参与本地项目、志愿网络或国家对话？例如，在芬兰，根据《芬兰青年法》，各市镇必须通过青年委员会（nuorisovaltuusto）纳入青年参与，目前已有300多个青年委员会，培养早期的公民归属感。
最终目标不仅是鼓励参与，更是培养伙伴关系，培育一代人，使他们不仅将新加坡视为居住地，更视为自己负有责任的社区。因为当他们真正拥有新加坡的利益时，他们和我们集体能够释放他们的创意、主动性和公民想象力。因此，我希望部长能分享如何继续打造这样一代人的看法。
主席：请回应。代理部长梁伟铭先生。
文化、社区及青年部代理部长（梁伟铭先生）：主席先生，感谢各位议员的发言和建议，以及对MCCY工作的支持。
先生，今年2026年是新加坡宣誓誓言60周年。60年来，我们践行“无论种族、语言或宗教，皆为一体”的理想。
1966年撰写新加坡誓言时，我们的建国之父拉贾拉南先生阐述了构建包容性“新加坡人”身份的愿景，基于我们的多元文化模式。刚经历分离的不确定，我们选择建设一个团结、共享和平等的“我们优先”集体，而非分裂、孤立和竞争的“我优先”社区。
这是一个大胆的愿景。60年来，我们建立了一个凝聚的多元文化社区，首先认同彼此为新加坡人。
虽然新加坡常被称赞为从第三世界到第一世界的经济奇迹，但同样甚至更为卓越的是，我们在种族、语言和宗教多样性中成功培育了一个凝聚的多元文化社会。
今天，我们再次面临一个变化世界的不确定性。外部，带来和平与繁荣的世界秩序正受到挑战、逆转和瓦解。我们听到国际关系变得更倾向于“我的利益优先”，而非“我们如何共同繁荣”。内部，我们面临快速老龄化和生育率急剧下降的双重挑战。正如副总理所言，这是生存挑战。我们需要保持开放，谨慎管理移民流入以补充低生育率。
移民需要时间适应。我们会选择团结而非分裂，分享而非孤立，平等而非歧视吗？正是在这些不确定时期，“什么让我成为新加坡人”的问题对我们个人和国家尤为重要。
我们的国家身份，反映核心价值、原则和信念，将成为我们在变化世界中的锚点。只有当我们牢牢扎根于作为新加坡人的集体身份时，才能经受住未来的考验。
严议员谈到需要“我们优先”的国家身份。在MCCY，我们通过三方面努力培育“我们优先”的社会。请允许我详细说明。
首先，我们需要扩大新加坡人共享的公共空间。基本层面，我们需要做更多工作，促进人们互动、建立联系和认同。
正如议员们记得的，我们过去通过共享经历建立联系，无论是观看本地电视节目如《Aksi Mat Yoyo》或电视剧《雾锁南洋》，还是下楼去玩龙形游乐场。但时代变了。随着Netflix、YouTube和TikTok的兴起，体验变得更加个性化。我们可以同处一室，却有完全不同的体验。这种自发共享体验的减少导致了我们之间纽带的削弱。
根据2026年IPS关于友爱与社会结构的研究，新加坡人报告亲密朋友数量从2018年的平均10.67人降至2024年的6.49人。十分之一的新加坡人表示没有亲密朋友。
我们需要改变这一点。MCCY将加大力度促进新加坡人之间更多的互动、理解和尊重，因为这正是维系我们新加坡身份的关键。我们将通过艺术、遗产、文化和体育的优势来实现，这些构成了我们的身份基础设施。
MCCY未来的重点之一是深化我们珍视的多元文化价值。
多年来，MCCY持续投资于保护和提升我们的多元文化。我们的艺术与遗产项目，如ArtsEverywhere@CDC和遗产激活节点，汇聚不同背景的新加坡人，共同欣赏和理解彼此的遗产与文化。我们的和谐圈鼓励坦诚对话，建立跨差异的同理心、信任和尊重，使我们不仅仅是共处，更是携手并庆祝彼此的文化和信仰。
我赞同李先生的观点，我们应设定更高目标，超越和平共处，促进深层次的跨文化理解和欣赏。
与艺术文化团体从业者交流时，他们告诉我，年轻人对传统艺术的兴趣开始下降。一些青少年放弃传统舞蹈课外活动，转而选择当代舞蹈风格，如韩流。因此，虽然我理解韩流和韩剧的吸引力，我们也需要保留构成我们多元文化身份基础的多样传统艺术形式，并将其传承给下一代。我们将加强努力，巩固我们独特的多元文化身份。
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国家艺术理事会（NAC）将在学前和教育部学校推出一系列新举措，积极让年轻一代接触我们的族群文化。国务部长贝先生将详细介绍。
NAC还将推出一项新的2000万新元多元文化艺术项目资助，由总统挑战和MCCY共同出资，支持传统及多元文化艺术从业者的发展。为强化我们作为多族群多元文化国家的身份，国家遗产局（NHB）将加强场所营造，强化甘榜格南和小印度历史街区的族群身份。资深国务部长刘先生和国务部长迪内什将进一步说明。
通过这些举措，我们希望更多新加坡人欣赏、体验并珍惜塑造我们身份的多元文化。
在社区层面，我们将加大力度与选择在新加坡生活、工作和学习的新来者分享我们独特的多元文化身份。新来者需要理解并欣赏新加坡并非同质或单一文化社会，他们必须适应可能与原居地不同的规范。
同时，新加坡人也需有意识地与他们分享我们的文化、价值观和规范。去年成立的外籍专业人士融合行动联盟已取得良好进展，推出新举措，更好地将外籍专业人士融入职场和社区。国务部长迪内什将分享更多。
第二是鼓励人们关心彼此，共同建设新加坡。活动能聚集人群，但关怀和连接才能维系我们。关怀精神在社会中生机勃勃——新冠疫情期间，人们本能地以各种方式挺身而出。我们在日常生活中也能看到，比如主动让座给更需要的人。
我们的目标是建设一个充满活力、蓬勃发展的行动民主，让更多新加坡人能够贡献力量，共建新加坡。许多新加坡人愿意挺身而出。
以余宝玲女士为例。她60岁，是乳腺癌幸存者，在康复期间发现水中运动的益处，渴望分享这份礼物。她制作了简短的水中健身视频，并在飞跃活跃老龄中心带领12个老年班。
老年人非常喜欢这些课程，鼓励她更频繁地开课。在新加坡政府合作办公室和SportSG的支持下，余女士成为ActiveSG教练，将水中健身课程纳入ActiveSG常规项目，影响更多老年人。
我们希望降低门槛，创造更多机会，让像余女士这样的新加坡人能够挺身而出贡献力量。
2016年，我们启动了“我们的新加坡基金”，与公民合作，将他们的社区创意变为现实。该基金已支持超过800个项目，惠及新加坡人。
虽然“我们的新加坡基金”广受欢迎并产生了实际影响，但也存在痛点。例如，资助上限和短期执行周期限制了项目；需要共同筹资对缺乏筹款能力的小型草根团体或个人构成挑战。
我们认真听取反馈，努力优化该资助。正如总理早前宣布，我们将在未来五年推出新的5000万新元新加坡合作基金。该基金支持更大规模的项目和梦想，欢迎小型团体，接纳来自各方的好点子。资深国务部长刘先生将介绍更多细节。
我们希望赋能更多新加坡人有意义地贡献力量，建立更强的纽带、更深的信任和更强的共同拥有感。这是建设更强“我们优先”社会的第一步。
最后，我们希望动员全国力量，建设包容社会，让每个人无论起点如何，都能获得支持，实现其全部潜能。
我们的力量在于人才多样性——从企业家到艺术家。当我们创造路径，让新加坡人追求热情并在所选领域茁壮成长时，我们就锻造了基于“每个新加坡人都重要”这一共同信念的强大国家身份。
这对我们的青少年尤为重要，他们必须克服在这个由人工智能主导且不断变化的世界中出现的新挑战。正如陈女士、潘教授和严先生指出，我们的青少年越来越多地面临社交孤立、恶化的心理健康和日益增长的职业不安全感。
国家青年理事会（NYC）致力于支持年轻人成为积极参与者，配备技能、机会和支持系统，实现他们的抱负。资深议员秘书吴先生将介绍相关举措。
现在谈谈体育发展。体育是所有新加坡人的强大纽带，超越年龄和能力。体育创造真实的人际连接。体育也激发民族自豪感，巩固我们的国家身份，正如高副教授所指出。
MCCY和SportSG将加大力度，进一步普及青少年的体育参与。我认同严先生的担忧，体育课外活动不应仅限于天赋异禀或有条件接受过训练的学生。
我们将提供更多平台，让孩子们自由玩耍，培养他们对运动的热爱——让每个孩子都有更多机会体验体育带给他们的自我认知和对他人的理解。去年我们推出了学校体育嘉年华，汇聚不同学校的学生一起运动。迄今为止，我们已举办了16场嘉年华，超过2000名学生参与。
15岁的St Gabriel中学学生Aryaa Geajaindren以前从未考虑过打篮球。学校体育嘉年华激发了他深入探索篮球的兴趣。他现在正积极参与篮球竞技。
我们希望更多学生受益。因此，到2027年，我们将把学校体育嘉年华扩大到32所学校。
另一个平台是课外活动（CCA），学生们一起训练，通过汗水、泪水和欢笑建立深厚友谊。CCA是许多人结交最亲密朋友的地方，这种持续互动和紧密纽带正是我们想要培养的。然而，随着学校招生规模缩小和学生兴趣多样化，一些学校可能没有足够学生成立CCA。
这就是为什么MCCY和教育部推出战略合作CCA（SP-CCA），让更多学生能参与自己喜欢的CCA。未来几年我们将推出更多此类项目。
作为草根倡议，一些学校也联合组建了多校CCA团队。例如，ACS（巴克路）和昆士威中学联合组建了曲棍球队，共同训练并参加全国学校运动会（NSG）。为鼓励更多此类合作，我们将推出新的1000万新元多校CCA团队资助。每支团队将在四年内获得20万新元，用于合作学校间的设施、交通或教练费用。
全国学校运动会的参与人数稳步增长。今年将达到历史最高，约有69000名学生运动员来自300多所学校，参加29个项目。我们希望扩大规模，为学生运动员提供更多机会。MCCY和教育部将启动新计划，与有准备、有能力、有意愿的国家体育协会合作，引入更多运动项目进入全国学校运动会。
体育的力量不仅限于学校，它能够团结人心，建立联系。通过共同运动建立的友谊，在艰难比赛中相互鼓励，以及挑战自我极限带来的成长，这些都是所有新加坡人，无论年龄和能力如何，都应终身享有的体验。
因此，SportSG（新加坡体育理事会）将加大力度推动社区体育的普及，确保每个人都能通过体育继续建立联系，过上更好的生活。Gho Sze Kee女士会很高兴听到，我们一直在稳步扩大体育场地，尤其是在社区核心区域。我们已翻新了四个体育设施，如三角洲体育中心（Delta Sport Centre）和德基活跃体育公园（ActiveSG Sport Park @ Teck Ghee），并完成了包括武吉坎贝拉（Bukit Canberra）和裕廊镇活跃体育村（ActiveSG Sport Village @ Jurong Town）在内的15个发展项目。
在一年内，我们将完成三个设施的建设，以提供更多本地化的体育场地，分别是女皇镇（Queenstown）、后港（Hougang）和新的榜鹅区域体育中心（Punggol Regional Sport Centre）。
我们还完成了11个社区体育设施，另有11个正在建设中，地点包括淡滨尼北（Tampines North）、吉宏（Keat Hong）、黄埔（Whampoa）和金文泰（Kembangan）等。我们的设施使用率高，每年接待超过2000万访客。随着越来越多的新加坡人拥抱积极生活方式，公共设施在高峰时段的需求也在增加，尤其是羽毛球和匹克球等热门运动。
因此，我很高兴宣布，未来五年内我们将建设50个多功能羽毛球或匹克球场地。这包括最近在加冷（The Kallang）开放的8个双用途匹克球场地，我们也将很快完成小印度巴士终站（Little India Bus Terminal）的另外8个匹克球场地。
在建设这些新场地时，我们也注意管理住宅区的噪音水平。我赞赏Gho Sze Kee女士在调解居民关切和推动使用更安静泡沫球方面的努力，这正是“我们优先”（"we first"）精神的体现。
SportSG将与社区利益相关者合作寻找解决方案。在符合空间和高度要求的情况下，我们还将激活社区中利用率较低的空间，如高架桥下的空间，使这些设施更方便地靠近新加坡人，同时保持足够距离以控制噪音。
我们可以看到加里峇图高架桥（Gali Batu flyover）就是一个例子。我希望这能回应Gho Sze Kee女士的关切，也希望这不仅仅是80%的解决方案。
对于林占武副教授（Assoc Prof Jamus Lim）提出的问题，国土部（MND）关注的不是收入损失，而是居民是否得到良好服务，尤其是噪音问题，因为许多多层停车场都靠近住宅楼。
我相信11月4日，议员David Hoe也提出了相关的议会质询，国土部对此作出了全面回复。或许我会建议该议员查阅那份议会质询的答复。
体育场地只是第一步，接下来还需为各年龄和能力层次的人群提供更多项目。我们有ActiveSG学院和俱乐部，向儿童和青少年开放，让他们参与喜欢的运动。有些人会进入高水平运动的发展项目。我们还有ActiveSG兴趣小组和成人学习运动项目，供希望学习新运动或休闲运动的成年人参与。
我们致力于提供更多此类项目，并将研究Kenneth Goh副教授提到的新加坡体育通行证（SG Sport Pass）建议。
Andre Low先生询问了关于力量训练以应对老龄相关虚弱的问题。我们推出了老年人虚弱预防计划（Frailty Prevention Programme，FPP），帮助他们健康老龄化，并通过体育继续建立社交联系。
在FPP框架下，SportSG于2024年在活跃老龄中心（Active Ageing Centres）推出了为期八周的抗击年龄相关肌肉流失（Combat Age-related Loss of Muscle，CALM）项目。自那时起，CALM在老年人中取得了积极的身体变化。其中一位参与者是Florence Soo女士。她在2025年中风后加入了CALM 1.0。
在教练的指导下，Florence女士逐渐恢复了力量、行动能力和柔韧性，包括呼吸和情绪的改善。这种经历不仅仅是Florence女士独有，事实上，几乎所有CALM参与者在至少一项指标上，如握力或步速，都报告了功能性表现的提升。
迄今为止，CALM强化项目已在132个活跃老龄中心实施，覆盖约4000名老年人，我们目标到今年年底覆盖180个活跃老龄中心和5500名老年人。
除了CALM，我们的老年人还发现适应性运动对保持活跃、健康和社交联系非常有吸引力和实用，无论是坐式地板曲棍球还是飞盘高尔夫。
作为FPP的一部分，SportSG已逐步为200个活跃老龄中心配备适应性运动设备。到2026年底，我们目标为所有活跃老龄中心配备设备，以便更多老年人参与适应性运动。Low先生也会高兴得知，CALM项目结束时，参与者会接触到HUR机器。几乎所有老年护理中心和部分活跃老龄中心都配备了这些可变重量训练器械。
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去年，我们还启动了老年人全国运动会（Seniors National Games，SNG），老年人代表各活跃老龄中心参加五项适应性运动的比赛。
我们对超过4500名来自110个活跃老龄中心的老年人以及更多家人、朋友和支持者的参与感到鼓舞，也收到了积极反馈，称SNG不仅为老年人提供了保持活跃的机会，还帮助他们建立联系并享受乐趣。我们邀请更多老年人今年参与。
针对残障人士，我们去年推出了支持社区发起项目的赋能体育基金（Enabling Sports Fund，ESF），该基金由总统挑战赛支持，作为更新后的残疾体育总体规划的一部分。
我们收到了许多优秀提案。其中之一来自SUN-DAC，开发了iBoccia，这是一种对残奥会运动波西亚（Boccia）的改良。iBoccia适合智力或其他残疾人士及其健全队友。通过该基金，SUN-DAC将向更多残疾人士推广iBoccia。
总体而言，ESF将支持21个项目，惠及8000多名不同残疾人士，涵盖20多种运动。
体育还为新加坡人追逐梦想打开大门。凭借适当支持，我们相信运动员能够实现他们的抱负和全部潜力。
Kenneth Goh副教授询问了运动员支持的最新情况。我们已设立spexPotential项目，培养有潜力在东南亚运动会（SEA Games）夺金的运动员。
我们提高了津贴，并为spex学者引入了中央公积金（CPF）补充，使竞技体育在经济上更具可行性。我们与六所自治大学签署协议，营造更有利于运动员的环境，并推出了spex教育本科奖学金，支持运动员兼顾教育和竞技体育。
以Ryan Lo为例，他是2023年亚运会和去年的东南亚运动会金牌得主，也是两届奥运会帆船运动员。
spex教育项目办公室与詹姆斯库克大学紧密合作，帮助他平衡学业与训练和比赛。他有望缩短学业时间完成商业学位，从而兼顾体育和学业抱负。Ryan今年将卫冕亚运会冠军，让我们为他加油。
我们希望为像Ryan这样的运动员做更多。我们正在重组机构以实现这一目标。
今年4月，我们将整合关键体育实体——高性能体育学院（HPSI）、新加坡体育学校（SSP）和“释放咆哮！”（Unleash the Roar!）——成立一个新实体，称为新加坡体育卓越机构（Sport Excellence Singapore，SpexSG）。我想向Alex Yam先生更新，这次整合将实质性地改善体育生态系统。
首先，我们将通过打造更以运动员为中心、涵盖全生命周期的高性能体育体系，增强对运动员的支持深度和广度。为了让更多运动员在体育领域停留更久、走得更远，我们将为他们提供专业专长支持，帮助管理体育承诺和生活其他需求。
在SpexSG框架下，我们将扩展运动员生活管理能力，支持运动员在高等教育、职业发展、家庭规划、财务知识和个人成长等多方面。我们的运动员生活表现经理已开始与顶尖运动员进行个性化咨询，共同制定计划，帮助他们应对重大人生转变。
Kenneth Goh副教授会高兴得知，我们还将举办工作坊，提升运动员在个人品牌、创业、心理健康素养和媒体培训等方面的技能。我们还将深化并整合运动科学与运动医学（SSSM）对运动员的支持。
整合的一个关键好处是汇聚SSSM专业知识和经验，提升能力，促进跨领域知识转移和职业发展路径。运动员将获得更专注、一致的跨运动支持，整个系统也将获得协同效应，否则各实体分开时难以实现。
第二，SpexSG将强化SSP作为所有新加坡代表队学生运动员的教育协调角色。
目前，SSP为中学及大专阶段的青年运动员提供专门的高性能发展路径。整合后，我们将利用SSP的专业知识，向所有新加坡代表队学生运动员开放，无论年龄或就读学校。
SSP目前为新加坡代表队学生运动员提供年度大学及奖学金展览和大学咨询服务。未来，SSP将支持所有六所本地自治大学的新加坡代表队学生运动员。SSP还将与国家体育协会（NSA）合作，允许有才华的学生运动员在准备好承诺时转入SSP，无论他们处于中学还是大专阶段。
SSP还在开发支持海外新加坡代表队学生运动员的能力，使他们能与SSP同学一同在新加坡学习，包括中学和国际文凭课程（IBDP）。
SSP将进一步加强与NSA的合作，积极提供寄宿和设施支持。
例如，SSP与新加坡羽毛球协会合作的青少年表现路径计划（Junior Performance Pathway Programme），允许非SSP学生运动员参加SSP的训练课程，并可寄宿于SSP。SSP将继续与更多NSA发展此类合作。
总体而言，这些变化将使我们的学生运动员能够追求抱负，实现全部潜力。
第三，SpexSG将加强与NSA的整合，赋能他们发展卓越体育。
像Jackson Lam先生一样，我也听到NSA的愿望和挑战。我们将加强对NSA的支持和合作。
NSA将拥有单一联络点，满足其高性能和发展路径需求，无论是通过专职高性能体育经理还是共享服务台。对于新兴NSA，我们还将制定指导手册，帮助他们实现慈善机构地位。
我们还将为NSA提供媒体沟通培训，提升媒体管理和运动员形象塑造能力。SpexSG将扩大体育管理人员借调机会，覆盖更多NSA。目前，SportSG已向帆船、击剑和羽毛球等NSA借调首席执行官、总经理和高性能经理。
我希望Jackson Lam先生和Valerie Lee女士对这些变化感到满意。
但最重要的是，SpexSG将使国家运动员的全程旅程更加整合和无缝。让我以篮球为例说明。3x3篮球因其高强度和快节奏而日益受欢迎。我们的男女队均位列亚太地区前六名。
但我们可以做得更好。
过去，我们的年轻篮球运动员分开训练。国家青年队在重大比赛前几个月才聚集，赛后又分开。这种临时训练环境无法充分发展他们的技术技能、决策速度和高性能习惯，也不利于团队化学反应。运动科学支持充其量是被动的。
我们希望创建更整合的路径，使年轻运动员更持续地聚集，以加强个人掌握和团队凝聚力。因此，SSP、HPSI和新加坡篮球协会在SSP成立了新的19岁以下国家青年发展计划。
运动员的体验如何？让我用一位运动员的故事说明。
Emily Elessa是国家16岁以下女子队的高潜力人才，该队去年在东南亚篮球协会16岁以下资格赛中获得银牌。最近，她决定从直通学校录取（DSA）学校义顺中学转入SSP，追求代表新加坡成年队的梦想。
此前，Emily每周在中学训练两次，和国家队队友分开，教练也不同，直到比赛临近。现在，Emily每周训练多达10次，参加3x3国家队和国家青年发展计划，由国家教练使用统一的教学方法指导。这种持续性帮助Emily建立正确的技术、身体和心理基础，为晋升成年国家队做好准备。
Emily现在还将获得全年运动科学和运动医学支持。
在体育之外，Emily还能在SSP建立坚实的学术基础，享有新加坡代表队运动员所需的灵活性。她还可使用运动员生活管理服务，获得其他生活优先事项的指导，做好人生准备。
SpexSG将与更多NSA合作，使更多国家运动员获得像Emily一样的支持。
主席先生，最后让我总结。经过60年的建国历程，我们通过共同经历建立了紧密联系，打造了一个多元文化社区，愿意挺身推动积极变革。我们锻造了一个团结的社会，首先认同自己是新加坡人，而非以种族、语言或宗教划分。
面对变化世界的不确定性，让我们站在先驱者的肩膀上，选择建设一个更加凝聚、更强大的新加坡，一个各族群和宗教社区不仅和谐共处，还深刻欣赏彼此文化的社会，一个人人积极贡献、关怀和提升社区他人的社会，一个人人都能实现抱负和发挥全部潜力的社会，一个真正体现“我们优先”精神的社会。
Mark Lee先生问成功的样子是什么。主席先生，我相信这就是S Rajaratnam先生60年前撰写我们誓言时所设想的新加坡——我们共同庆祝多元文化，分享“我们优先”的价值观，选择团结为一体，彼此信任，互相扶持，回馈社会，每个人都能按自己的方式成功，抛开种族、语言或宗教差异，为建设国家贡献力量，每位新加坡人无论起点如何，都能实现全部潜力。
让我们像先辈们那样团结努力，追求这一梦想，就像S Rajaratnam先生首次撰写誓言时一样。让我们不做旁观者，而是作为一个团结的民族立下誓言，实现国家的幸福、繁荣与进步。[掌声]
主席：文化、社区及青年部高级国务部长刘燕玲。
文化、社区及青年部高级国务部长（刘燕玲女士）：主席先生，我最近参观了开国元勋纪念馆的“非旁观者”（Not Mere Spectators）展览。
自1959年以来，新加坡的多样性由人民的积极参与构建并维系。多年来，新加坡人挺身而出，关心彼此，维护我们的多元统一。例如人民文化音乐会，这是由人民为人民举办的表演，培养归属感、相互尊重和共同身份认同。这些音乐会在新加坡各地的开放空间举行，人们聚集一起表演、观看和学习。
多位艺术界先驱，如Uma Rajan博士和Som Said女士，曾在这些音乐会上表演，并成为终生好友。他们在音乐会上的经历使他们深信多元文化必须付诸实践，而非仅仅口头表达。事实上，他们都对新加坡文化景观产生了深远影响。
我们国家的早期岁月和历程反映了我们寻求打造的“我们优先”社会的种子和基础。我们在社会不同层面看到这种“我们优先”精神，新加坡人彼此关心、分享和扶持。
在个人层面，我们看到志愿者如Ratnam Periowsamy女士。她今年90岁，是多美歌东活跃老龄中心（Care Corner's AAC）的最年长志愿者。她挨家挨户探访独居老人，并为他们组织活动。她的榜样告诉我们，无论年龄大小，都能贡献和关怀。
在社区层面，甘榜格南协会（Kampong Gelam Association）等团体共同制定了甘榜格南地区规划，提升该区的遗产和文化重要性。
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在企业层面，我们在像aAdvantage这样的公司中看到“我们优先”的精神。他们大约一半的20名员工定期获得时间去养老院做志愿者。
主席先生，我们之前在个人、企业和社区层面分享的共同线索显示，普通新加坡人和团体挺身而出，为我们的社会带来改变，产生重大影响。这正是文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）希望激发、推动和强化的“我们优先”精神。
我们将通过以下方式实现：第一，通过我们的遗产创造公共空间。我们将把人们聚集在一起，无论是实体上还是精神上，以促进更强的社区归属感。第二，鼓励并支持积极的公民参与，确保好点子转化为行动，且无人被落下。
主席先生，当我们谈论遗产作为公共空间时，我们不仅指的是地标，还包括我们社区内熟悉的地方——这些地方承载着新加坡人共同的意义、记忆和经历。
傅哲祥先生询问MCCY计划如何让更多新加坡人积极参与庆祝社区遗产。通过国家遗产局（NHB）的遗产激活节点（HANs），NHB与居民和利益相关者合作，共同创造庆祝他们社区的项目。
自2024年起，NHB已在新加坡推出三个遗产激活节点，吸引了超过3万名访客，分别位于加东-裕廊、金文泰和榜鹅。
在加东-裕廊，Lorong Stangee街有一幅由本地艺术家Alvin Mark Tan先生根据他的童年记忆创作的妈妈店壁画。这幅壁画激发了路人贡献他们关于裕廊的故事和老照片。
在这三个遗产激活节点中，已有超过360名志愿者挺身而出，深化我们本地社区的遗产。
基于这一势头，NHB将在2026年推出两个新的遗产激活节点。一个位于直落布兰雅，与Participate in Design合作，重点发掘隐藏的社区宝藏和故事。另一个位于中峇鲁，与中峇鲁社区中心合作，庆祝公共组屋建筑、宗教场所及遗产商家。此外，我们将继续谨慎管理我们的地标和历史街区，确保它们对所有新加坡人保持意义，并敏感地融入周边社区的日常生活。
Joan Pereira女士建议政府采取整体方法评估38号奥克斯利路未来的公共使用，并在决策过程中咨询邻近居民。正如代理部长David Neo在之前的部长声明中提到，MCCY肯定会研究使该地块向公众开放的可能方案，使其成为我们共同记忆和所有新加坡人的公共空间。
该地块的收购程序正在进行中。一旦获得访问权，NHB将与相关机构协商，进行全面研究，评估如何最大化该地块的公共教育价值。我们将与议员及相关政府机构合作，接触附近居民，考虑意见和反馈，尽量减少潜在的不便。
为提升和保护我们的历史街区，NHB将在我与高级国务部长Faishal Ibrahim共同主持的遗产商家、传统行业及文化生活跨机构工作组下设立场所营造项目办公室。
该项目办公室将与关键街区利益相关者紧密合作，如甘榜格南协会、小印度商户及遗产协会和牛车水商业协会，更好地了解他们的需求，赋能他们活跃街区。此外，项目办公室将提供启动资金，连接团体与相关机构，并提升设计、实施及扩大场所营造项目的能力。
遗产商家在提升我们历史街区独特特色中扮演重要角色，是社区的支柱。吴建业副教授询问是否能提供更有针对性的接班规划支持，以保护遗产商家并支持其财务可持续性。我们认识到接班规划复杂且极具个人性。对于准备传承的遗产商家，我们的机构肯定会提供支持，包括业务改进计划，如NHB的组织转型资助。
例如，第三代家族经营的Rumah Makan Minang餐厅利用该资助，通过审视和重组家族企业内的角色，增强其长期可持续性。
NHB还将与公民志愿者合作，作为小印度公民参与项目的一部分，记录遗产商家及其贡献。社区有兴趣的成员可留意NHB今年5月发布的志愿者招募公告。
这些努力提醒我们，遗产之所以得以延续，不仅因为机构的保护，更因为人们的传承与活化。
主席先生，除了通过遗产空间强化社区归属感，我们还将通过激发积极公民参与，培育“我们优先”社会的成长。我们希望看到每个人携手塑造并拥有我们的共同未来。
为激发积极公民参与，我们于2024年成立了新加坡政府合作办公室。去年，政府收到超过1600份合作提案，涵盖广泛的社区需求。让我举两个简短例子。
项目#JalanJalan是一个由青年主导的表演艺术草根项目，使命是通过公共空间的表演连接人们。在SG60期间，他们在五个地点举办了20多场表演。另一个项目是Skillseed，一个成熟的社区建设者，与居民合作发掘社区故事，强化地方领导力。Skillseed致力于在社区内建立信任、能力和归属感。
这两个项目起点不同，但都怀有贡献精神。此类公民驱动的倡议具有巨大潜力，能扩大其影响力和覆盖面。
这正是由黄循财总理和代理部长David Neo刚刚宣布的新加坡合作基金将发挥关键作用的地方，激励并强化积极公民参与。应Hazlina Abdul Halim女士的要求，我简要介绍该基金的定制方式。该基金通过三级支持，赋能不同阶段的草根创意和活动。
首先，种子级旨在通过支持公民主导的创意，即使是初期的，也提供便捷且门槛低的资助，最高为一年5000新元。我们希望该级别简易的申请流程能激励更多个人和草根团体提出创意，无论规模大小，解决社区需求或改善新加坡人的生活。
下一层级，萌芽级，旨在扩大地面行动圈，支持已有成效的创意放大影响和覆盖。成功通过种子级的项目可申请此级别资助。
申请萌芽级需证明有类似项目的实施经验或成功试点。该级别提供最高80%资助，封顶5万新元，期限最长两年。
最后，规模级适用于旨在实现系统性或行业范围社会影响，或促进跨部门合作并有可衡量成果的组织。此类项目可为大规模倡议，提升公民参与或能力。与萌芽级类似，申请者需展示类似项目的成功经验及试点的实质成果。
主席先生，我们认识到实施此类项目可能需要组织更强的能力。因此，我们将与成功的规模级申请者合作，强化其可持续执行项目的能力。该基金提供最高80%资助，封顶100万新元，期限三年。基金还涵盖人力和培训等能力建设费用。
Elysa Chen女士询问是否会专门划拨新加坡合作基金支持青年或家长主导的项目，以及是否应增加基金规模以促进互助和邻里关系。我想回应她，目前该基金规模为五年5000万新元。我们希望保持其可及性，鼓励广泛的倡议带来社区积极变化，当然包括青年和家长。
新加坡合作基金也补充了现有计划，如国家青年理事会的青年变革者资助和国家青年基金（NYF）。我向她保证，我们会先评估该基金在促进积极公民参与项目中的成效，再考虑是否扩大规模。
申请将于2026年4月起开放，更多信息将在新加坡政府合作办公室网站发布。我们欢迎并邀请所有新加坡人挺身而出，做出改变。你的创意和努力很重要，我们可以共创一个“我们优先”的新加坡，让无人独行。
主席先生，“我们优先”的社会是由个人、社区和企业共同为集体利益服务而建立的。Hazlina Abdul Halim女士询问如何动员更多人参与。
首先，我们将激励并积极支持企业志愿服务。正如黄循财总理宣布的，企业志愿者计划将延长三年。公司员工在注册慈善机构（IPC）志愿服务时，相关支出（包括员工薪资和志愿用品）可享受250%的税务扣减。
第二，我们将帮助企业建立能力和信心，为社会贡献力量并塑造更美好的社会。例如，新加坡工商联合会与VolunteerInc.合作，为企业提供培训、指导和与社区组织的连接。
自去年7月项目启动以来，已有超过100家公司与VolunteerInc.合作。
其中之一是跨国贸易信用保险公司Coface，发起了为老年人开发适应性地板球课程的活动。去年，52名Coface志愿者在八场地板球活动中贡献了624小时。这项意义深远的活动帮助长者通过适应性地板球增强自信，建立了老年人之间以及与Coface员工的友谊，重新发现了保持活跃的乐趣。
未来五年，我们目标动员600家公司和6000名员工参与类似项目。
第三，我们将继续培育回馈社会的文化。2025年，国家志愿与慈善中心的“善行企业”计划表彰了371家公司。两年前，即2024年，由新加坡社区基金会领导的“共建更强社会联盟”成立，汇聚政府机构、捐赠者和社区伙伴，更好支持低收入家庭。迄今，该联盟筹集约1600万新元，将慷慨转化为对最需要家庭的实质支持。
Elysa Chen女士询问政府是否考虑通过时间银行等替代方式促进邻里互助。虽然时间银行是促进邻里关系和互助的好方法，但实施上可能存在实际挑战。不过，我向她保证，已有社区主导的类似时间银行目标的项目。
例如，慈善机构大华福利会在DBS基金会支持下实施了一项计划，辅助AAC参与者根据能力和时间完成短期微任务，完成后获得小额津贴。我向她保证，MCCY乐意支持类似的草根项目，包括刚宣布的新加坡合作基金下的时间银行试点。
主席先生，虽然企业和有组织的捐赠极为重要，“我们优先”的社会也体现在日常关怀行为中。因此，志愿服务对培养积极公民参与至关重要。我们遍布全岛的24个SG关怀志愿中心与社区紧密合作，识别并满足社区需求。
来自半导体制造商美光的720多名志愿者与三巴旺的SG关怀志愿中心合作，运营“美光村”，陪伴长者，组织外出和节日探访。今年，我们目标动员36000名志愿者，惠及18万名服务对象。
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当企业、社区团体和个人选择挺身而出，连接、关怀和贡献时，积极公民参与的基础得以建立，“我们优先”社会的种子得以播种。主席先生，请允许我用中文发言。
（中文）：[请参阅本地语言发言。] 主席先生，新加坡国家建设的基础是建立和谐繁荣的多种族多元文化社会。我们常说，“先国家，后家庭”——先“我们”，后“我”。优先“我们”而非“我”的核心信条，是新加坡赖以生存和繁荣的根基。
为深化“我们优先”的意识，我们希望通过“企业”、“社区”和“个人”三管齐下，加强相互关怀，建设“我们优先”的社会。
首先，政府将继续利用我们的遗产和文化，创造更多公共空间，强化社会凝聚力。
国家遗产局将设立场所营造项目办公室，与社区内的企业、协会和个人合作，活跃我们的历史街区，增强新加坡人的身份认同感。
我们还将新增两个遗产激活节点，分别位于历史文化丰富的直落布兰雅和中峇鲁，补充现有的三个节点。
由黄总理和代理部长Neo宣布的新加坡合作基金，将在明确框架下，为不同阶段和规模的社区倡议提供分级资助。该五年计划总预算为5000万新元。
从年上限5000新元的“种子”阶段，到最高5万新元、最长两年的“萌芽”阶段，再到三年内最高100万新元的“规模”阶段，政府希望鼓励个人和组织从小做起，通过渐进支持与更多人分享更多富有创意的好点子，团结社区。
企业、公司和专业团体也可通过“企业志愿者计划”发起倡议，鼓励员工通过志愿服务回馈社区。
“我们优先”的社会需要积极公民共同努力实现。当企业、社区团体和个人携手，我们将能够创造一个和谐、团结、进步的家园和社会，属于我们所有人。
（英文）：主席先生，让我们共同期望并努力实现我们所期望的“我们优先”社会，在那里没有新加坡人孤单前行，各族群、背景和信仰的人们因共同的希望和愿景而团结，建设一个关怀和凝聚的新加坡。
我们今天分享的例子中，从90岁的Periowsamy女士到Coface的热心志愿者，再到我们的众多善行企业，均展现了“我们优先”精神的萌芽。
MCCY将继续与新加坡人合作，创造条件让这种精神成长。让我们共同塑造一个坚强有韧性、团结一心的“我们优先”新加坡。
主席：文化、社区及青年部国务部长梅业成。
文化、社区及青年部国务部长（梅业成先生）：主席先生，代理部长谈到了多元文化如何架起社区间的桥梁，构成我们作为新加坡人的核心。多元文化一直是新加坡身份的基石。
对新加坡而言，共同身份感至关重要。它将我们凝聚在一起，赋予归属感。我们的多元文化身份提醒我们何为新加坡人。如今，我们将其视为一种生活方式。
这在最近的春节与斋戒月同时发生时体现得淋漓尽致。上周六下午，在我的选区，我看到穆斯林居民与社区一起做捞鱼生，基层领袖打包自助餐，方便他们开斋后享用。
尽管如此，我们仍有更多可以做、也应当做的事，以深化我们的多元文化基因。全球范围内，社会多样性常导致分裂。因此，加强跨文化理解、深化共同身份尤为关键。
艺术在此可成为强有力的催化剂。通过艺术，我们认识自己和来处。更重要的是，艺术鼓励我们超越差异，珍视共性。
令人鼓舞的是，国家艺术理事会进行的人口艺术调查显示，八成新加坡人同意艺术让我们更好地理解不同背景和文化的人。
多年来，本地艺术界培养了几代从业者、团体和平台，体现了新加坡多元文化的传统。
两周前，我参加了在新加坡华族文化中心举办的春季招待会。其中一个表演是多民族打击乐展示。鼓风乐团以中国鼓开场，随后纳迪新加坡的孔邦鼓和雷巴纳鼓，以及新加坡多尔乐队的帕莱鼓加入。这些来自不同文化的乐器无缝融合，呈现出精彩的表演。
我们将继续支持传统艺术和文化，使这珍贵的文化遗产得以传承给后代。
我们咨询过的多位艺术家和艺术团体建议我们通过艺术发展多元文化主义。我们必须更加努力地吸引年轻人理解和欣赏各族群内外的文化遗产，并扩大单一文化传统艺术形式在大众中的影响力。特别是，我们应促进跨文化的认知和欣赏。通过搭建这些桥梁，我们学会更好地欣赏自己族群之外的文化和艺术形式。
在这一坚实基础上，我们可以做更多工作，支持跨文化艺术创作，这些创作应当成熟、创新、高质量且独具新加坡特色。
为实现这一目标，我们将提供更多支持，促进多元文化艺术形式的发展，无论是通过融合其他文化影响的制作、表达多元文化主义的创作和组织，还是艺术家学习其他族群的文化艺术形式。
这必须从年轻时开始。正如钟爱玲女士所说，促进年轻人更广泛参与对艺术领域的长期可持续发展至关重要。早期且有意义地接触多样的艺术传统，为我们的儿童和青年奠定了相互欣赏文化的基础。国家艺术理事会（NAC）正在扩大学生参与的机会。
在学前阶段，NAC将委托艺术家和艺术团体开发项目，使儿童能够持续接触艺术体验。其中一个与The Artground合作设计的项目聚焦多元文化艺术，涵盖马来和印度舞蹈、峇峇娘惹艺术、传统手偶戏和中国戏曲。NAC将与选定的幼儿园试点这些项目。
在中学阶段，NAC将推出为期两年的族群融合舞蹈项目，由O School Limited执行。该丰富课程将让来自不同学校的学生共同学习多种族群舞蹈形式，并将其应用于现代舞。学生们将有机会参加Super 24的最终展示，这是一个汇聚亚洲各地舞蹈团体的区域性比赛。
我们将加强对学校引入艺术家开展传统和多元文化艺术学习体验的资金支持。
目前，在艺术家进校计划（Artist-in-School Scheme）下，NAC为学校引入艺术家运营的项目提供70%的可支持费用资助，每校每年最高15,000新元。NAC将增加对艺术家运营的传统和多元文化项目的支持，资助比例提高至100%，每校每年最高25,000新元。
2026年，NAC策划了近300个项目，纳入NAC-艺术教育计划，与教育部学校合作，培养各级学生对新加坡多元文化身份的认同。这比2025年增长近35%，为学校提供更多选择，激发对多元文化艺术的兴趣。
在学校之外，我们将增加社区中多元文化艺术的曝光度。我们通过ArtsEverywhere@CDC项目，将艺术和文化表演带入日常空间。例如，Sri Warisan Som Said表演艺术团呈现了融合传统马来艺术形式的表演，音乐家演奏安克隆琴，舞者将旋律编织成故事，精致的wayang golek木偶表演。该项目自2024年启动以来，已吸引超过63,000名观众。
展望未来，我们将聚焦通过ArtsEverywhere@CDC在社区核心区域展示新加坡的多元文化。
我们将引入更多传统艺术和跨文化表演及项目，深化新加坡人对不同族群文化和传统的理解与欣赏。例如，由朱吉尔顿共同创立的Open Score Project融合全球族群音乐文化，推动跨文化合作的边界。作为ArtsEverywhere@CDC的一部分，他们的合奏团去年在裕廊湖花园演出。通过此类项目，我们可以培养对连接我们文化的艺术体验的更深层次欣赏。
我们希望鼓励更多艺术从业者和团体培养表达我们民族身份的联系与合作。为支持此目标，我很高兴宣布一项新的多元文化艺术项目资助计划，由总统挑战赛和文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）共同启动；未来五年将提供2,000万新元，支持从业者和组织发展传统及多元文化艺术形式，并通过艺术促进跨文化交流。
该资助将支持融合不同文化、传统和学科元素的艺术家和项目。这可能包括以有意义方式交织不同文化元素的艺术家，以及希望在自身文化传统之外掌握艺术形式的艺术家。它还将支持加强多元文化艺术生态系统的建设活动。多元文化艺术项目资助计划将在未来几个月推出，NAC届时将公布更多细节。
另一项扩大本地艺术文化接触的举措是2025年9月推出的新加坡文化通行证（SG Culture Pass）。高建业副教授曾询问该计划是否触及新观众。我很高兴分享，已有超过120万公民注册了文化通行证。其中七成在过去五年未曾参加本地艺术文化项目。使用积分者中，有九成表示愿意参加更多本地项目。通过文化通行证，新加坡人发现了除自身文化外的新加坡多元文化。
我感谢何德仁副教授建议定期为文化通行证充值、首次使用者折扣及额外积分。鉴于该计划刚启动，MCCY将监测使用趋势后再作调整。尽管如此，统计数据显示文化通行证已帮助新加坡人发现本地文化多样性，这令我们鼓舞。
何德仁副教授还询问是否能更多支持本地出版商和书店。自2026年3月1日起，新加坡人可用文化通行证积分在参与书店购买新加坡文学书籍。这加强了我们对本地文学艺术领域的支持，直接惠及出版商和书店。
除了扩大艺术接触和培养观众，我们还在探索利用艺术潜力产生积极社会影响的方式。
其中一个领域是艺术教育研究。自幼积极参与艺术有助于全面发展。通过持续且本地化的研究，我们能更好地确定艺术教育如何培养下一代新加坡人。
MCCY委托国立教育学院牵头，与MCCY、NAC及滨海艺术中心合作，开展为期五年的研究，探讨艺术参与如何提升学生创造力和社会情感健康。通过该研究，我们希望为学校和艺术机构提供洞见，指导支持青少年发展的工作。
另一个展现巨大潜力的新兴领域是艺术与福祉的结合。新加坡国家美术馆的慢艺术指南即为例子，通过自助音频体验和反思手册，鼓励访客通过慢速观赏和正念练习，专注地与艺术品互动。这种基于证据的方法对心理健康和认知功能有积极影响。
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随着新加坡人口老龄化，艺术为长者提供了良好的生活和老龄化平台。NAC与新加坡卫生集团社区医院及综合护理署合作开展研究，旨在评估艺术项目对长者福祉的影响。研究成果将助力设计有效干预措施，支持长者。
NAC还与艺术界及医疗和社区护理从业者合作，开展一系列艺术项目，旨在提升辅助活动中心（AAC）长者的福祉。我们目标是培养更多具备技能的从业者，能够有效实施基于艺术的福祉项目。迄今已在28个AAC开展，目标到2028年覆盖110个中心。
高建业博士和吴思琪女士询问我们如何支持艺术家建立可持续且有韧性的职业生涯。
我们将继续投资本地艺术文化领域的发展，支持其抱负。这包括通过文化配对基金等措施鼓励和催化私营部门支持，该基金为向艺术和遗产慈善机构的捐赠提供配套资助，迄今已配对超过4.5亿新元，惠及约130个独特慈善机构；我们还有艺术赞助人奖和遗产赞助人奖，以表彰对本地文化领域的贡献。
艺术自由职业者（SEPs）是新加坡艺术劳动力的重要组成部分。我们致力于赋能他们，提升能力，打造有意义的职业。
自2019年我启动艺术资源中心以来，已有超过4,000名SEPs订阅该平台，约占新加坡艺术自由职业者的三分之二。
Julian Low是一个例子。他参加了艺术资源中心的IGNITE项目，获得导师指导、网络资源和品牌建设指导。Julian于2024年与妻子共同创立了无事人剧场。他们的首部作品《我终于爱上了这个世界》于2025年成功上演。
我们认识到艺术自由职业者面临不断变化的挑战，需要更完善的支持。我很高兴宣布，NAC将加强艺术资源中心，更好地应对他们的需求。
多年来，艺术资源中心为SEPs提供法律指导、合同模板和同行学习机会。今年我们开始与Pro Bono SG合作，提供教育项目和定制资源，增强他们对法律议题的理解，助力抓住机遇。SEPs还可预约现场专职律师咨询。
NAC还将推出新的创意创业项目，支持SEPs发展创业技能，扩大作品集，实现更强的财务韧性。
这两项举措将在今年下半年推出。
我今天分享的这些举措确保我们持续拥有强大的资金、人才和本土支持管道，正如钟爱玲女士所提。支持艺术家和艺术团体繁荣发展，传承文化遗产，他们也成为我们向世界展示的文化大使。
高建业副教授曾问及利用文化外交强化新加坡身份。我们将继续支持从业者在国际舞台上展现风采，推广新加坡身份。例如，2025年大阪世博会新加坡馆展示了多位本地表演艺术家，包括多元文化合奏团yINHarmony、无伴奏合唱团The Island Voices和巴拉特纳蒂亚姆舞者Shruthi Nair，向全球访客展示新加坡丰富的文化多样性。
主席先生，展望未来，新加坡必须准备应对不断变化世界带来的新挑战。强化我们的共同身份将使我们自信地克服这些挑战。我们必须重申对多元文化主义的承诺。
艺术具有独特力量，深化我们独特的多元文化品牌，建设更具包容性的社会。我们将继续投资并发展艺术领域，放大其积极影响。
主席：文化、社区及青年部国务部长迪内什·瓦苏·达什。
文化、社区及青年部国务部长（迪内什·瓦苏·达什先生）：在新加坡各地，社区相互庆祝彼此的文化，从彩排中的多元文化花车，到哈迪贾清真寺的年度开斋晚宴，我与宗教领袖们一同参加斋戒破斋仪式。这在当今世界极为罕见，当今世界信任稀缺，多元文化主义正面临退缩。
我们在独立前的岁月、二战艰难时期以及族群紧张局势高涨时都见证过这种情况。然而，即使在逆境中，我们的先驱宗教领袖选择了团结与和谐。他们的承诺促成了1949年宗教间组织（IRO）的成立，旨在建立信任和相互尊重。
这体现了新加坡的社会凝聚力方法，即不同背景的人们积极努力欣赏彼此的文化和传统。
建设强大、凝聚和关怀社会的使命是持续的。让我谈谈MCCY将关注的三个领域。第一，建设拥有共同文化身份的强大社区。第二，加深社区间理解，扩大公共空间。第三，构建关怀和互助生态系统，提升所有社区。
让我先谈强大社区。
新加坡是移民国家。早期移民带来了语言、传统和信仰。他们在定居新加坡时互助，成立协会和宗族。随着时间推移，新一代成长，更多人扎根这里。虽然我们保持种族和宗教身份，但我们的实践已演变为独特的新加坡风格。
我们必须管理好文化遗产，使后代了解我们的身份和根源。我希望这对我们的青年，尤其是今天在观众席的东海岸实习计划学员有所帮助。
法沙尔副教授早前谈及马来文化中心，资深国务部长刘德华谈及活化历史街区。
正如总理今年预算演讲所述，MCCY和印度文化中心（IHC）将启动新举措，激活小印度作为充满活力的文化区，庆祝新加坡印度艺术和文化。我们将与社区及街区利益相关者合作，共同制定IHC的长期愿景，提升小印度作为历史街区的文化营造。
这将从2026年的愿景规划开始，为街区范围的项目和活动奠定基础。我们的目标是帮助新加坡人和国际访客理解并欣赏新加坡印度文化和习俗。
我们建设强大印度社区的努力将超越文化和遗产。去年，尚穆加姆部长宣布，资深国务部长穆拉利·皮莱和我将领导新委员会，推动印度社区发展。
自那时起，我们广泛征求意见。超过150个新加坡印度组织分享了他们的愿望和想法，特别是如何共同提升社区成员，强化作为统一印度社区的融合。
根据收到的反馈，我们将称之为印度参与与发展倡议（INEI），在泰米尔语中意为“连接”。这是一个由社区为社区设立的委员会，旨在建立印度社区内的强大网络，汇聚地面已有良好工作的合作伙伴，包括SINDA和Narpani。
INEI将从三大优先事项开始。第一，改善印度社区的社会经济状况，特别是弱势和贫困群体。第二，倡导新加坡印度社区的融合与团结。第三，通过INEI下的举措，创造新途径让青年贡献力量，培养下一代印度社区领导人。
我很高兴宣布，INEI委员会将设立年度INEI论坛，共同讨论愿景和关切。首场对话将于2026年4月举行，主题为建设强大团结的印度社区。
我们还将设立子委员会，邀请社区成员积极参与，分享观点，积极塑造这一重要倡议。更多详情将在4月对话会上公布。主席先生，请允许我用泰米尔语说几句话。
（泰米尔语）：[请参阅方言发言。] 去年8月，国家安全统筹部长兼内政部长尚穆加姆宣布成立新委员会。该委员会由资深国务部长穆拉利和我共同主持，未来五年推动印度社区发展。
自宣布以来，我们已与社区各界成员进行了讨论。参与者分享了印度社区面临的挑战。他们的观点围绕社会凝聚力和发展这两个共同主题展开。
我们将该委员会命名为INEI。该委员会将把社区组织，包括SINDA和Narpani，所开展的卓越工作提升到一个新的水平。
我们也相信要培养下一代领导者的技能，并发掘新的人才。
此外，我很高兴宣布，我们将举办年度论坛，讨论对我们社区重要的事务。我们计划于2026年4月举行首次对话。届时将分享更多关于INEI委员会的详情。我请求社区成员积极参与，分享他们的看法。
（英文原文）：现在让我转向第二个领域，即加深社区间的理解和扩大我们的共同空间。
我之前提到全球不确定性，新加坡也未能幸免。去年九月，Al-Istiqamah清真寺收到一包裹，内含猪肉和侮辱性字条。十二月，圣若瑟教堂遭遇虚假炸弹威胁。
社区领袖迅速作出回应。实龙岗和腰果和谐圈联合邻近宗教组织，为受影响社区提供支持和安慰。我们的最高宗教组织发表了团结的公开声明。
他们向公众传达的信息很明确——攻击一个社区就是攻击所有社区。
我们的回应至关重要。每起事件都是建立信任储备的机会，使我们在困难时期能够团结一致。这就是为什么我们继续投资于种族与宗教和谐圈。
去年，超过40个宗教组织与文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）合作，共同举办跨信仰活动，并参与宗教组织危机准备计划。仅在种族与宗教和谐月，全国就有超过10万人参加了70多场活动。其中包括首次由青年主导的跨文化展示“Kaleidoscope: Harmony in Motion”。
今年，我们将加大力度与宗教组织互动，构建更强大的邻里跨信仰网络。
主席先生，我们在多元中促进团结与包容的能力，是新加坡吸引国际企业和人才的持久竞争优势。但如我之前所说，我们的多元文化模式独特，一些新来者可能需要更多时间适应。毕竟，融合是双向的，需要本地人包容，也需要新来者努力理解我们的文化、价值观和规范。
职场是进行这种有意义互动的自然场所。正如代理部长David Neo所提，外籍专业人士融合行动联盟（AfA）已广泛参与，制定行业合作伙伴可采纳的实用方案，以促进外籍专业人士在职场的融合。
AfA提出了两个重点领域下的新上游举措，政府对此给予大力支持：第一，帮助新的就业准证（EP）持有人了解新加坡的生活和工作规范；第二，支持企业采纳包容性的职场实践。
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未来几个月，政府将推出针对EP持有人的新入职和迎新计划，重点介绍职场和生活规范。这将补充现有的新公民和永久居民计划。
新加坡全国雇主联合会和新加坡企业联合会也将推出面向企业的新资源，包括职场融合手册和新的文化智商及敏感度培训课程。
我很高兴分享，已有五个行业协会和商会加入，为新EP持有人推出迎新日计划，向他们介绍我们的职场规范，并提供与新加坡同事交流的机会。未来将逐步扩大至更多行业协会和商会。
先生，我已谈及建设强大社区和加深社区间联系。第三个领域是构建一个每个社区都能利用的关怀生态系统。
我们的合作社是社区互助最古老的形式之一。它们不是以身份定义，而是以共同目标定义。自1925年以来，合作社在满足人民不断变化的需求方面发挥了重要作用。
有些人可能熟悉信用合作社，提供储蓄和贷款服务。还有消费和服务合作社，如银发照护者合作社，为照护者提供社区支持并培养技能，如临终关怀管理。
然而，正如Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari先生早前指出，我们的合作社面临着更新人才储备和吸引年轻成员的日益严峻挑战。
这就是为什么文化、社区及青年部于2025年宣布了合作社十年转型路线图。该路线图将培育一个有远见、有目标、专业且值得信赖的行业。我很高兴分享，文化、社区及青年部将在未来十年内投入最多3000万新元支持合作社运动。我们将帮助合作社保持相关性，发展新能力以应对新兴需求并实现未来转型。合作社将获得人才发展、治理和运营效率方面的支持。
作为路线图的一部分，文化、社区及青年部与新加坡全国合作社联合会将从今年起联合推出合作社领导者计划和新兴领导者计划，培养下一代领导者。路线图还包括社区推广与影响计划，为青年试点创新项目提供启动资金、孵化空间和指导。
[议长先生主持]
关于Tiwari先生提出的允许企业成立合作社及审查中央合作社基金缴款率的问题，文化、社区及青年部将进一步评估，以确保合作社行业的相关性和竞争力。
总结来说，1949年成立的跨宗教组织，是一次信任的试验，当时正式的跨信仰对话尚属罕见。我们的先辈勇敢且有远见，为我们今天享有的多元文化社会奠定了基础。
同样的精神应引导我们加强我刚才提到的文化、社区及青年部的三个重点领域：建设强大社区；加深社区间理解；构建提升所有人的关怀生态系统。然而，本议院无法立法规定社会凝聚力，也无法强制信任。但历史和跨宗教组织的例子告诉我们，如果有社会能实现并维系这一点，那一定是新加坡！
主席：文化、社区及青年部高级议会秘书吴涵燕。
文化、社区及青年部高级议会秘书（吴涵燕女士）：如果你不害怕，你会做什么？我想问今天可能正在观看社区对话的年轻人这个问题。
但这也是我们所有人的问题。如果恐惧不再束缚你，你会尝试什么？
对许多年轻人来说，恐惧并非源于能力不足，而是成长于一个高度互联的世界，在这里失误和比较被放大。
但恐惧是生活的组成部分。因此，我们的责任是确保年轻人具备应对恐惧的能力。
这种勇气不会孤立产生。勇气在感到被支持、扎根并成为比自己更大事物一部分时成长。
在许多社会中，我们看到关系和承诺的弱化迹象，这些曾经将人们与社区紧密联系在一起。有观察者称之为广泛的社会疏离趋势。
归根结底，年轻人和我们所有人一样，渴望连接和意义。
我们如何赋能年轻人在寻找归属感、意义感和自我认同的旅程中，即使全球社会纽带似乎在减弱？
为回答这个问题，我们直接向年轻人求助。事实上，我们收集了超过35万份来自青年和利益相关者的反馈。我们倾听了你们的希望、梦想和关切。我们听到了你们的声音，并将通过今年晚些时候推出的新加坡青年计划将你们的观点付诸实践。这将是一项为期五年的行动计划，旨在赋能你们，成为新加坡最好的自己。
Alex Yam先生、Kenneth Poon教授、Hazlina Abdul Halim女士及其他议员倡导更好地参与青年、支持他们，并询问我们还能做些什么。与议员们一样，文化、社区及青年部坚信这一需求。
今天我将分享我们在新加坡青年计划下正在发展的几个关键领域，以支持年轻人生命的不同阶段。
仔细倾听后，显而易见的是：早期，年轻人渴望有信心去尝试、挑战自我、跌倒再爬起。他们理解世界充满不确定性，但不希望被保护得过于脆弱。他们想要真实的经历，真实的世界，真实的人。
随着年龄增长，问题转向寻找工作方向和意义。再往后，许多人希望挺身而出，贡献并塑造周围的空间和社区。
但这一切都始于同一个问题：我有勇气去尝试吗？
这就是游戏的重要性。游戏在新加坡常被误解。它不是休闲或轻浮。
对年轻人来说，游戏是学习如何犯错、反弹，以及与朋友和家人一起经历的过程。当我女儿学滑旱冰时，她的第一课不是如何快速滑行，而是如何安全跌倒。她和朋友们一起学习时最开心——跌倒、笑声和一起爬起，让她更容易坚持下去。
如今，年轻人花更多时间在线，但许多人渴望现实生活中的连接。当你走出户外，尤其是去新地方与新人相处时，你会发现重要的事情。你会学到，克服困难是进步的一部分，陪伴则至关重要。
这就是为什么我们将逐步扩大教育部-户外探险新加坡挑战（MOC）计划，到2030年覆盖所有中三学生。去年约有1.8万名学生参与，约占该年级65%。
未来，新加坡所有15岁学生都将至少体验一次OBS。每个OBS小组由来自不同学校的12名学生组成。他们是陌生人，将共同进行为期五天的户外活动。通过这些共同经历，他们将学习生活技能，增强应对未知的信心，并建立持久友谊。
如Valerie Lee女士所言，我相信OBS对本院一些人留下了深刻印象。事实上，我和Valerie在15岁时同组参加OBS。我们晒伤了，腿上满是蚋虫叮咬，但核心记忆至今难忘。
MOC的扩展得益于新的OBS Coney校区。我很高兴更新消息，该校区将于今年晚些时候开放。
想象一下，四人团队合作完成高级绳索挑战，而非现在的两人组。这些扩展的团队活动将促使更多年轻人相互依赖，建立更强的纽带和更大的韧性。特别有意义的是，其中一些挑战，包括高空项目，将无障碍支持轮椅使用者——确保所有学生在获得和培养这些关键生活技能时不被落下。
正如Darryl David先生提醒，OBS于1967年由吴庆瑞博士创立，旨在“培养身心坚韧的青年，成为积极的公民，激励他们服务社区。”“坚韧”和“积极公民”这几个词体现了新加坡永恒的精神。我们的永恒之道，确保国家长存。
但需求显然已变。1967年，我们需要坚韧以争取建国。今天，我们需要韧性以应对不确定世界，保持强烈的身份认同和归属感，成为一个民族，一个国家。
Darryl David先生和Valerie Lee女士询问了将OBS扩展至所有年龄段及海外项目的可能性。感谢他们的宝贵建议。但资源有限，我们的优先任务是先做好MOC的规模扩展，再考虑其他领域。
Valerie Lee女士还谈到支持户外探险教育行业。我们通过2022年成立的户外探险教育理事会支持该行业。理事会汇聚合作伙伴，建立国家标准，交流行业最佳实践。
除了组织活动如OBS，友谊也在日常相处的普通时刻形成。许多年轻人感到，随着时间推移，自然形成这种联系的实体空间越来越少。
Charlene Chen博士、Elysa Chen女士和Eileen Chong女士因此询问了为青年创造更多空间的计划。
我们正在开发Somerset Belt作为青年专区。Somerset Belt是指Somerset地铁站周边区域，包括*SCAPE、Somerset青年公园和滑板公园。
我们收到了超过16,500份关于青年及其他人希望看到的反馈。我们的青年还与建筑师和规划师合作设计Somerset Belt的规划和项目。我们计划今年晚些时候开始施工。
与此同时，Somerset Belt已有令人兴奋的项目和活动。我们于去年11月重新开放*SCAPE，现在成为围绕青年兴趣的活动中心——动漫、舞蹈、艺术、桌游、音乐，种类繁多。
我曾在一个周五晚上到访*SCAPE，与一些在那里聚会的年轻人交谈。我问他们*SCAPE对他们意味着什么。他们告诉我：“这是一个我可以快速测试活动概念的沙盒。”“在其他地方，我们可能会被注视，但这里没有评判。”“这是一个可以自在做自己的地方，给我们时间和空间追求想法和热情。”
现场充满了希望和活力的氛围。我们重新开放才四个月。
*SCAPE只是开始。我们希望将这股运动带到年轻人居住的地方。我们将创造更多欢迎且开放的空间，让你们自由聚会，建立友谊。
我们将在新加坡青年计划启动时分享更多细节。
随着年轻人进入人生下一个阶段，问题也随之变化。学生毕业后，下一步是进入职场。我走在正确的路上吗？我能找到工作吗？
过去几天，许多议员强调了青年对工作的焦虑，尤其是在人工智能面前。确实，在难以想象未来有哪些工作岗位、甚至难以规划职业时，找工作令人畏惧。但我们不能阻挡这些进步。关键是培养与技术共存的技能。
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我们的各部委正为此努力，正如同事们过去几天所分享。例如，我们的高等院校将加强人工智能课程，同时强调与AI互补的软技能。对于在职青年，我们将支持他们学习AI相关技能，如为参加指定AI培训课程者免费提供高级AI工具的使用权限。
根本上，真正的力量在于年轻人如何选择使用这些工具。
你们这一代——数字原生甚至AI原生一代——本能地知道如何使用这些工具。尽管它可能取代一些初级任务，但它能帮助你们压缩传统学习曲线。你们将教会我们许多关于AI及其可能性的知识。但我们也会用经验和应对变革的记忆支持你们。我们需要互相借力。
这种共同学习正是年轻人告诉我们他们所需要的。有人陪伴他们，有人帮助他们理解不确定性，找到内心力量。有人提醒他们，生活不是直线，但总有办法找到坚实的立足点。
这就是为什么我们将扩大导师计划，让青年在生活中的大大小小“跳跃”中有人同行。
Hazlina Abdul Halim女士会高兴地知道，自2022年以来，我们通过Mentoring SG运动创造了超过2万个导师机会。
我们知道，在生活节奏快的情况下，找到导师并不容易。因此，我们希望降低门槛，让专业连接更易获得。
我们正将导师计划直接带入学校，与你们同在。我们最近与三所理工学院合作，在Mentoring SG下创建导师计划。到2030年，这些计划每年将服务多达11,000名学生。更多合作伙伴正在洽谈中。
想象一下，如果我们都挺身而出，贡献经验，倾听并陪伴年轻人度过人生转折。这种文化只有当我们为年轻人腾出时间时才能创造。这正是我们在Mentoring SG下想做的。
经历下一次人生“跳跃”后，许多年轻人又会发生变化。他们不再只是问“我该做什么？”，而开始问“我能改变什么？”
年轻人明确告诉我们，被倾听并不等同于被信任。真正的责任感和自主权能够建立信心。潘建成教授、陈嘉玲博士以及陈怡莎女士都询问了我们如何支持青年参与以营造归属感。
我们一直在创造许多这样的机会。
以国家青年理事会（NYC）的青年变革者资助计划为例。这个种子资金计划让青年从头到尾掌控项目。年轻人不仅仅是接受资金和指导；他们还完全负责评估彼此的提案并提供建议。对于有影响力的提案，我们准备进一步支持。
青年可以参与不同的项目，比如国家青年基金和刚才资政刘永乐提到的新加坡伙伴关系基金。在预算演讲中，首相也提到了青年小组。
青年小组的运作方式不同，但精神相同——年轻人直接与政府机构合作，共同塑造他们关心的政策。第一轮有120名青年积极参与，探讨了财务韧性和环境可持续性等议题。下一轮青年小组将在今年晚些时候启动，届时我们会分享更多细节。
我们希望为年轻人创造更多贡献的机会。
我很高兴宣布，我们将成立索美塞特带青年协作实验室（Somerset Belt Youth CoLab），由15名青年组成，他们将推动、拥有并领导索美塞特带内的空间和活动。CoLab将掌控索美塞特带的项目和活动，决定各空间的用途。简单来说，他们将创造定义索美塞特带氛围的风格。
当我与部分成员交谈时，他们明确表达了最需要的东西——空间、资金和实现愿景的自主权。因此，我们为CoLab提供专用空间和每年30万新元的预算，以实现他们在索美塞特带的创意。这样，青年们可以将索美塞特带转变为真正属于他们的大胆之地。
让我们设想一个充满青春活力的空间——一个由他们打造并注入活力的地方。我们正在将对年轻人的信任付诸行动——真正的投资、真正的决策、真正的责任。
这就是我们说：我们信任你们领导，带领我们前行。这才是真正的拥有感。主席先生，请允许我用普通话说几句话。
（普通话）：[请参见方言发言。]政府高度重视青年发展。他们是国家未来的领导者，是国家的希望。
我们有时不自觉地将青年与上一代人比较。然而，每一代新加坡人都面临着自己的挑战。
我们这一代青年有自己的抱负，并拥有强烈的社会使命感。这是他们的优势。与其拿他们与上一代比较，不如给他们空间自由表达，找到自己的道路，发现自身优势。我们还应给予他们通过游戏发展人际技能或从失败中成长的机会。
未来一年，政府将与各方合作，制定为期五年的新加坡青年计划，旨在培养一代有抱负、有韧性、强烈国家归属感的青年。我们欢迎社会各界的建议，鼓励积极参与。
（英语）：主席先生，成长不是一条直线。它始于认识到你比想象中更坚强，继续于你找到自己的道路而不失自我，最终成长为勇于迈步塑造未来。
正如我在演讲开头所说，世界许多社会正面临联系减弱的困境。但这会是我们的未来吗？我们必须竭尽全力避免这种情况。
如果我们把正确的因素放在适当位置，我们能否朝正确方向前进？能否培养一代深刻连接社会、认同新加坡是他们的、他们就是新加坡的一代？新加坡青年计划将是我们承诺，培养这样一代自信尝试、彼此连接、准备贡献的青年。
我们将继续倾听，继续为你们构建合适的支持，继续创造你们领导的空间。[掌声]
主席：我们还有时间进行澄清。我们未能完成对代理部长费沙尔的澄清，先由我来完成，6点钟准时结束。然后，我们将对文化、社区及青年部其他政治任命官员进行澄清。哈米德·拉扎克博士。
哈米德·拉扎克博士：谢谢主席。我想向代理部长澄清。在基层，我与许多马来穆斯林组织（MMOs）和伊斯兰穆斯林组织（IMOs）互动，他们热衷于解决马来/穆斯林社区内的一些问题。我非常欢迎M3+网络的想法。我想问，这在基层将如何运作，如何实施？对于热衷于解决社区问题的MMOs和IMOs，有哪些机会和资源可用？
穆罕默德·费沙尔·易卜拉欣副教授：先生，感谢议员的补充问题。
我很高兴与他分享，过去几个月，许多MMOs主动联系。他们实际上已经自发组织起来，探讨如何合作并与M3机构协作。另一方面，M3机构也在寻找更好的合作方式。
正如我在演讲中提到的，我们在某些领域已有合作。事实上，M3+强调M3机构与MMOs、IMOs及非正式团体之间更有意图的合作。
我们有五个M3重点领域，包括加强婚姻、青年发展、医疗保健和支持工人。我们将探讨MMOs、IMOs及非正式团体在这些领域如何发挥作用。
举个例子，我们有马来/穆斯林组织康复网络，许多MMOs和IMOs聚集支持。这是实现M3+的一个例子。根据关注的领域或议题，将有机会开展合作。
另一个是M3@社区，每个有M3的社区都能与MMOs、IMOs及其他非正式团体合作。我们希望共同探索合作方式。我们将在联谊会上进一步讨论。我期待M3机构与MMOs、IMOs及非正式团体之间的合作显著增强。
主席：法兹利·法兹维先生。
法兹利·法兹维先生：谢谢主席。我有两个问题要问费沙尔部长。第一，能否分享用于清真寺建设规划的清真寺与穆斯林居民比例？第二，穆斯林事务局（MUIS）是否有计划撤离目前滞留中东的马德拉萨学生？
穆罕默德·费沙尔·易卜拉欣副教授：感谢议员的补充问题。
我们的首要任务是确保新加坡所有穆斯林有足够的祈祷空间。仅用穆斯林人口与清真寺数量的比例不足以衡量，因为新加坡各地的礼拜习惯、居民分布和清真寺规模不同。MUIS密切监测基层的礼拜模式。包括我本人，我们会实地感受情况，并采取措施满足需求、提升容量，包括多场礼拜和扩建或升级现有清真寺。
如有不足，我们会调整并寻找机会。正如我演讲中提到的，若人口分布变化或新建住宅区，我们会考虑建设新清真寺，如淡滨尼和登加。
关于第二个问题，我已在补充答问中回答。我们与外交部密切合作，也关注基层情况。昨天与学生交谈时，我告诉他们，若有任何信息请告知，因为他们身处当地，可能掌握比我们更准确的信息。他们听后非常高兴，感受到我们的关心和重视。
我向议员保证，尽管形势不确定，我们会尽力照顾我们的人民。
主席：阿扎尔·奥斯曼先生。
下午5点45分
阿扎尔·奥斯曼先生：谢谢主席。请允许我用马来语提问。
（马来语）：[请参见方言发言。]我们知道人工智能（AI）将渗透知识、学习和工作各方面。我有两个问题。第一，伊斯兰学校（SCIS）的课程是否包含人工智能相关科目，以保持时代相关性？第二，我希望新加坡各地的马德拉萨也能获得政府支持，学习并接触人工智能。
穆罕默德·费沙尔·易卜拉欣副教授：（马来语）：[请参见方言发言。]感谢阿扎尔先生提问。这是个好建议。人工智能是国家倡议，SCIS和我们的马德拉萨将持续推进，使学生不仅受益于人工智能，还能深化学习过程中的理解。
我会将此建议反馈给MUIS并分享给马德拉萨，因为这是重要平台，我们将探讨如何为学生提供发展机会，使他们无论选择何种学科都保持相关性。
主席：我相信穆斯林事务的澄清已全部完成。现在转至文化、社区及青年部。亚历克斯·严先生。
亚历克斯·严先生：谢谢主席。请问部长，关于SpexSG的整合，我可能错过了，能否分享新架构全面运作的预期时间表，以便我们尽快满足新加坡队运动员在生活旅程中的多样需求？
第二个问题给国务部长迪内什。他之前谈到团结和凝聚力的重要性。我们看到民族和宗教社区的顶层领导层有很多合作。但部里是否评估这些合作在信徒和社区成员层面渗透程度？我们还能做些什么？
最后，给高级议员吴涵妍女士，她提到青年小组与政府机构合作让青年塑造政策。能否详细说明部里如何确保这些小组的建议被有效采纳并影响政策结果？
还有一个问题，今天有许多宣布，强调建设“我们优先”的社会，但我想问部里如何衡量成功，除了参与度之外，如何评估社会信任是否增强？
内奥大卫先生：先生，感谢议员的澄清。从4月1日起，名为SpexSG的担保有限公司将生效。由于相关实体已存在，预计整合需要时间。公平地说，我提到的许多工作已在进行中，但预计需要一两年时间，才能充分实现整合带来的好处。
迪内什·瓦苏·达什先生：感谢议员提问。确实，和谐圈的整合程度和讨论内容往往取决于特定选区的宗教机构类型。但我们一直努力扩大范围，促进不同选区间的交流，并不断审视如何推进和加强现有和谐圈。我们正在评估还能做些什么，以及如何更好地促进融合。
不同选区间存在一定差异，有些选区融合度高，项目多，但我们努力实现均衡发展。
吴涵妍女士：关于青年小组，我同意必须落实并反映在政策中。文化、社区及青年部和国家青年理事会密切管理，确保建议进入政策流程。
例如，有个主题叫#LifeHacks，实质上是关于财务韧性。由此产生了一个青年导向的财务信息指南。文化、社区及青年部正与相关机构合作推动落实。
我还想强调，除了关注政策结果，我们也希望改善青年的体验。他们表示欣赏互动，但也希望获得政策制定技能。因此，下一轮我们将为他们提供政策制定培训，帮助他们更好理解流程。
主席：高建成副教授。
高建成副教授：谢谢主席。我有三个简短问题。
第一，关于支持运动员职业转型的项目。我理解这些服务在运动员持卡期间可用，但能否考虑延长服务至持卡期后，因为许多运动员可能在竞技生涯结束后才充分利用这些服务。或许可以设立新加坡队校友会。
第二，我赞赏教育部与国家体育协会合作引入新运动项目参加全国学校运动会。相关地，文化、社区及青年部能否促进国家体育协会与教育部在体育特长生（DSA）标准上的协调，使学校路径更符合长期运动员发展框架？
最后，关于新加坡伙伴关系基金。提到Sprout层级有20%配套资金要求。请部长详细说明捐款是否符合250%税务扣减，是否可用自有收入资助，配套资金结构是否灵活，以及文化、社区及青年部是否提供筹款和合作发展支持，帮助组织获得资金。
内奥大卫先生：先生，我先回答前两个问题，资政刘永乐将回答第三个。
关于持卡期后运动员生活管理，我们一直的做法是根据运动员需求提供支持。我们承诺尽力支持新加坡队运动员。若他们在持卡期后需要相关服务，完全可以提出申请。运动员社区紧密，我们彼此熟识，乐于支持。
关于体育特长生标准，文化、社区及青年部承诺作为政府桥梁，帮助国家体育协会解决与政府机构的任何问题。针对与教育部的协调，我们也会提供支持。
刘永乐资政：谢谢主席。我简要回应高建成副教授关于20%配套资金的问题。
回顾一下，Sprout和Scale层级分别要求80%配套资金。Sprout层级为两年5万新元，Scale层级为三年100万新元。
我保证20%配套资金不必一次性支付。资金来源无论是捐款还是自有收入均可接受。
关于税务减免，取决于项目主导组织及其是否具备公益机构（IPC）资格。
至于筹款支持，新加坡政府伙伴关系办公室随时准备协助部门合作伙伴和申请者实现项目，提升运营和筹款能力。
我还想更新，项目获批后，最高可先拨付40%资金，助力项目启动。
主席：陈怡莎女士。
陈怡莎女士：谢谢主席。鉴于新加坡文化通行证（SG Culture Pass）使用率良好，取得积极成果，文化、社区及青年部是否考虑将文化通行证扩展至所有儿童，而非仅限18岁及以上？因为早期接触艺术和文化遗产对培养文化欣赏和创造力非常重要。
我还想了解是否有计划在新加坡文化通行证（SG Culture Pass）中引入青年或家庭组成部分，以便家长可以与子女一起利用该通行证参与艺术、遗产和文化活动。
我的下一个澄清问题。我也很高兴听到现在每个15岁的青少年都能体验OBS项目。我想问是否可以考虑将该项目扩展到受新冠疫情影响的群体。
马业庆先生：关于文化通行证的使用，目前我们设定的年龄为18岁及以上。我认为这也是尊重个人必须自行决定购买书籍或其他文化产品的权利。
至于较年轻的新加坡人，他们在学校中也获得了艺术消费的支持，因为18岁以下的大多数人都在我们的教育机构中。如前所述，我们与教育部（MOE）及艺术生态系统合作，提供各种艺术项目。许多项目都获得了大量补贴，甚至免费，以帮助我们培养一代能够接触并欣赏艺术的新加坡人。
因此，文化通行证是针对年龄较大的群体。正如我所说，文化通行证推出仅半年时间。我们将观察其使用情况，肯定会寻找进一步提升或让新加坡人更易获得的方式。
主席：林杰克先生。抱歉，先请高级议会秘书吴女士发言。
吴涵燕女士：谢谢主席。我感谢议员对受新冠疫情影响群体的关心和考虑。正如我在主旨演讲中提到的，我们的优先事项是将教育部-OBS挑战计划（MOE-OBS Challenge）扩大至2030年前的中三学生。这将是我们的重点——确保计划执行得当。
此外，如果回顾受疫情影响的群体，我们也认识到他们处于不同的人生阶段，可能在服兵役、工作等不同环境中。因此，要让他们重新聚集，进行统一的体验，在操作上会更加复杂。
主席：林杰克先生。
林杰克先生：我想问部长，SportSG提供的共享服务是否有足够的能力满足所有国家体育协会（NSA）的需求？其次，如果需求超过能力，SportSG将采用什么框架来优先处理请求？
梁大卫先生：先生，感谢议员的提问。我们在评估对NSA的支持时，与所有NSA紧密合作，了解他们的需求和请求。我们的评估是应该能够满足需求。
我们支持NSA的方式始终是希望提升NSA的能力。我在演讲中提到的许多举措，比如派遣人员到NSA等，都是为了增强他们的能力。
此外，我们还促使NSA之间相互合作，分享最佳实践。例如，有一个NSA在数字化运营方面取得了良好成效，我们正让他们将经验分享给其他NSA。因此，我们的策略是提升NSA的整体水平，并密切了解他们的需求。我的评估是，我们应有足够资源支持他们。
下午6时
主席：林占士副教授。
林占士副教授：先生，我感谢部长提及去年11月议员David Hoe提出的关于建屋发展局（HDB）多层停车场改造考虑的议会质询。我也非常了解多层停车场内打乒乓球带来的噪音问题。因此，在我的发言中，我特意解释了噪音不便可以通过隔音帘和天花板的存在来缓解。我想知道部长是否认为这些缓解措施确实不可行？如果可行，是否可以请HDB给予保证，我们能够推进此类改造请求？我理解这实际上是基础设施问题，可能更适合向国家发展部长提出，我原本是向国家发展部提交的发言，但被转交，因此我现在向部长提问。
梁大卫先生：先生，感谢议员的澄清。就像SportSG一样，我们采取非常务实的视角。正如我在演讲中所说，关键在于地点是否合适，是否符合规格。如果需要大量缓解措施才能实现，我们就要问自己这是否是政府资金的最佳使用。因此，我认为情况就是如此。
主席：刘伟安先生。
刘伟安先生：谢谢主席。我向代理部长提出澄清。我感谢他全面介绍我们帮助老年新加坡人应对衰老相关虚弱的措施。
我的发言还有另一个重点，是关于让力量训练更易于新加坡人普遍接触。我想知道部长是否对我建议利用现有健身角落，为更多新加坡人提供便捷力量训练有何回应？
梁大卫先生：先生，感谢议员的澄清。我原以为他的建议是针对老年人的，因此回复中提到老年人需要不同的器械，理想上是带有气动配重的器械，可以小幅度增加重量，而非我们常见的标准配重器械，因此大多数老年护理中心配备的是HUR器械。
至于新加坡人一般的力量训练，结合SportSG和新加坡私营健身房的整体情况，我认为新加坡人有多种选择，无论是健身器械还是其他方式。关于在选区及建屋局健身角落安装配重器械的具体建议，我们在部分地区已有相关设施，也在研究中。例如，在兀兰有试点项目，尝试为户外器械配备可调节配重。这些都是我们正在探索的方向，当我们有足够数据和信心证明这些设施在户外环境中效果良好时，将推进推广。
主席：李显龙先生。
李显龙先生：谢谢主席。代理部长提到IPS调查，调查显示年轻新加坡人更可能感到社会孤立，超过一半表示他们觉得在线交流比面对面更容易。但同时，全球博物馆正从安静的展览空间转变为社交场所，举办结合艺术、音乐和互动活动的夜间项目，吸引年轻观众。因此，我想问部长，文化、社区及青年部（MCCY）和国家文物局（NHB）是否考虑试点针对年轻成人的“博物馆夜间”活动，或许与国家青年理事会（NYC）合作，设计符合年轻人社交方式的活动形式？
梁大卫先生：先生，感谢议员的澄清。我们当然非常愿意研究并试点可能的夜间项目，无论是在博物馆还是其他场所，NYC在其中将发挥重要作用。我也想向议员保证，我们持续关注此类项目。除了夜间，NYC还举办过通宵活动，带领青年在新加坡国家博物馆、新加坡国家美术馆和樟宜机场过夜。简而言之，我们愿意研究和考虑此类项目，尤其是在我们面临人口出生率问题的背景下，也许这能有所助益。
主席：蔡银洲先生。虽然您没有提交发言，但可以提出澄清问题。
蔡银洲先生（碧山-大巴窑）：谢谢主席。我还是青年，感谢。首先，我声明本人是牛车水遗产中心执行董事。我了解到MCCY正在甘榜格南和小印度地区开展场所营造计划，旨在激活空间并支持遗产企业。
我想强调，牛车水也应被适当视为历史街区，文化丰富，包括获得新加坡遗产企业计划奖项的如始于1896年的世天行佛具店，以及今年庆祝成立101周年的白仙春。我想问部委是否考虑将协调和支持范围扩大至牛车水？
我的第二个补充问题给高级议会秘书吴女士。MOE-OBS挑战计划是否只在OBS营地实施？我问这个是因为还有其他营地，如樟宜海岸、乳制品农场和巴特拉路。我想知道这些营地是否会被利用，以及OBS是否是MOE-OBS挑战的唯一运营商，还是会有其他私人户外探险公司参与运营？
刘燕玲女士：感谢蔡银洲议员的澄清。关于他的历史街区，我想向他保证，隶属于跨部门工作组的新场所营造项目办公室不仅服务甘榜格南和小印度，也包括牛车水。事实上，该团队不仅限于MCCY和NHB，还跨政府部门合作，包括贸易与工业部下属的经济机构，如企业新加坡和新加坡旅游局，共同支持历史街区的企业，提升其场所营造能力。一是设计、实施并扩大场所营造，提升三大历史街区（包括牛车水）的活力和人流，我们与牛车水商业协会密切合作。
吴涵燕女士：关于MOE-OBS挑战计划的营地，主要是OBS的营地，即乌敏岛和即将启用的康尼岛校区。我们还要强调，该计划具有探险性质，会利用自然环境，活动地点不局限于这两个校区。
关于运营商，OBS将是主要或唯一运营商。虽然有其他运营商举办营地活动，但多为学校特定营地。
主席：既然没有进一步澄清，我邀请任俊豪先生是否愿意撤回修正案？
下午6时08分
任俊豪先生：谢谢主席，经过41个问题和330分钟的讨论，我确实认为部委值得这100元。因此，我请求撤回修正案。
[(程序文本) 修正案经许可，撤回。 (程序文本)]
[(程序文本) 头X拨款总额2,407,711,100元被批准列入主要预算。 (程序文本)]
[(程序文本) 头X拨款总额677,912,500元被批准列入发展预算。 (程序文本)]
英文原文
SPRS Hansard 原始记录 · 抓取日期：2026-05-02
The Chairman : Head X, the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY). Mr Alex Yam.
12.53 pm
Building a "We First" National Identity
Mr Alex Yam (Marsiling-Yew Tee) : Chairman, I move, "That the total sum to be allocated for Head X of the Estimates be reduced by $100."
In quieter times, discussions about national identity can feel philosophical, even abstract. But we certainly do not live in quiet times today.
The world around us is very much unsettled. War rages again in the Middle East. Major powers are contesting influence across regions and supply chains. Strategic rivalry is intensifying. Closer to home, regional tensions periodically flare as well.
For a small and open country like ours, these developments are not distant headlines. They are reminders that the global environment is becoming more fragmented and uncertain.
In such a world, national resilience cannot rest only on economic strength or military capability. It must also rest on something less visible but equally vital and that is social trust – the confidence that fellow citizens will stand together when it matters.
This is the essence of what we mean when we speak about a "we first" society.
But building such a society today is not so straightforward. Singaporeans, understandably, are focused on bread-and-butter issues. Families worry about the cost of living. Parents think about their children's future. Workers are adapting to technological disruption and economic uncertainty.
In a fast-paced and demanding society, it is natural for people to focus first on their own households. Yet if everyone looks only inward, the invisible threads that hold a nation together will loosen.
A "we first" national identity cannot be built by slogans alone. It cannot rely only on campaigns or occasional events. It must be experienced in daily life and reinforced through habits.
Singapore begins from a position of strength. Surveys by the Institute of Policy Studies (IPS) consistently show relatively high levels of trust in our public institutions. Community participation and volunteering have grown steadily over the years.
But trust is not a static asset. It must be continually renewed.
International comparisons are perhaps instructive for us. In many Nordic societies, more than 60% to 70% of citizens say they trust people they do not know personally. These are among the highest levels of social trust anywhere in the world.
Such trust did not arise by accident, of course. It is the product of social norms and institutions that encourage citizens to participate actively in community life.
Take Denmark, for example. There is a deeply rooted tradition known as "föreningsliv". It refers to a vibrant culture of associations where citizens organise sports clubs, cultural groups and volunteer initiatives. Many of these organisations are run not by professionals but by ordinary citizens.
These associations build horizontal bonds across age, profession and background. They create the social networks that sustain trust.
In the Netherlands there is the concept of "gezelligheid". This word has no perfect English translation, but it captures a sense of warmth, togetherness and shared belonging. It reflects the idea that communal life matters, that it is not merely a collection of individuals pursuing individual goals.
In Japan, the "Yakult Ladies" play a vital social safety-net role, keeping a super-aged society connected.
These examples remind us that social cohesion is not automatic. It is cultivated deliberately through everyday practices. So, for us, we must begin with our young. Schools are places where students prepare for life. They are also where civic instincts are formed. Programmes that bring students into contact with different segments of society can deepen empathy and a sense of shared responsibility.
In workplaces, many Singaporeans spend a large part of their lives at work. Employers therefore have an opportunity to foster environments where collaboration across backgrounds, nationalities and skills is valued and where corporate volunteering helps employees contribute beyond their professional roles.
In our neighbourhoods as well, those are the most immediate setting where "we first" instincts can flourish.
Singapore's housing model has long been a quiet but powerful engine of social cohesion. But as lifestyles change, we need to reinforce face-to-face engagements so that neighbours do not become strangers. Initiatives that bring residents together can help restore that sense of familiarity with each other.
We must recognise that much of our national conversation takes place online.
Digital platforms have extraordinary reach. But they also amplify outrage, misinformation and polarisation. So, for a diverse and multicultural society like ours, cultivating digital citizenship is also essential. Our online spaces must reflect the same values of responsibility and mutual respect as we do in our physical spaces.
We must also continue to bridge differences across generations and socioeconomic groups between the old and the young. Creating opportunities for these generations to interact will help anchor our national identity in both memory and renewal.
We must guard against social silos forming as economic pressures rise. A "we first" society must ensure that compassion and mutual support remain embedded within our social compact.
Chairman, therefore, I look forward to hearing how MCCY intends to further embed the ethos of "we first" across multiple aspects of society so that our national identity is formed through participation, not just persuasion.
It will be the quiet but enduring conviction amongst our people that our fate is shared, and that when the world is more turbulent, Singaporeans will instinctively do what we have always done best – to put "we" before "me". Because in this uncertain world, the greatest strength Singapore possesses will not just be our economy or institutions, but our people.
[(proc text) Question proposed. (proc text)]
1.00 pm
Religious Institutions and Youths
Ms Mariam Jaafar (Sembawang) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Our young people face a lot of pressure – school, exams, social media. Many are quietly asking themselves: "Who am I and where do I belong?"
When stress, identity and belonging collide, our mosques can be more than just places of worship. They can be safe harbours. Mosques can be powerful partners for youth well-being, because they offer community, meaning, trusted adult that provide guidance.
For many youths, struggles with anxiety or identity are not just emotional questions. They are spiritual ones. They are questions about purpose, about self-worth, about their relationship with their faith. Spiritual guidance is not separate from well-being.
I am encouraged that Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura or MUIS) and the mosque sector have been stepping up on youth engagement, including initiatives, like NEXTGEN. But we need to do three things.
First, listen. Give youths a real voice. Involve them in sustained youth co-design at district and congregational levels, so programmes speak to real challenges youth face.
Second, equip. When a young person is struggling, they may approach an ustaz or a youth leader long before they approach formal services. Are we ready for that moment? Can we consider piloting trained youth counsellors in mosques, peer support groups and formalising clear referral pathways? Spiritual guidance and professional care must work hand-in-hand.
Third, reach out. We cannot wait for youths to walk through the doors of the mosque. We must go to them instead. Bring mentoring and resilience workshops into community spaces and digital platforms. Meet them where they are.
Every young Malay/Muslim deserves to know: they are seen, they are valued, they are supported – in faith and in life. When our youths are anchored in faith and supported in well-being, our community – and our nation – are stronger.
Singapore College of Islamic Studies
Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi (Nee Soon) : The Singapore College of Islamic Studies (SCIS) is an investment into the next generation of religious leadership and scholarship for the local Muslim community and builds on the existing work and contributions of our madrasahs and religious institutions here.
How will SCIS ensure that its programmes will maintain high standards of Islamic scholarship relative to other institutions around the world, with the aim of producing graduates who not only contribute to the needs of the Muslim community but extend their depth of scholarly knowledge, wisdom and expertise to also benefit wider Singapore society and indeed, the world as a whole?
How does the Minister see SCIS' importance, centrality and development in the context of today's global developments and SCIS' potential contributions alongside Singapore's nation building efforts and forward aspirations as a country?
Mosque Construction Planning Parameters
Mr Fadli Fawzi (Aljunied) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, in January, I asked a Parliamentary Question about the population planning parameters used to determine whether a new mosque will be built, and whether these parameters include not only Muslim residents, but also the daytime Muslim working population and Muslim foreign workers.
The Minister's answer did not reveal the specific population planning parameter or the exact mosque-to-Muslim-resident ratio, that the Government uses.
My question was prompted by the planned closure of Masjid Al-Firdaus in Choa Chu Kang. Although located in an isolated area, this mosque has served the spiritual needs of the community, including National Servicemen stationed nearby and foreign workers employed in the area, for more than 60 years.
Masjid Al-Firdaus is to be closed once a new mosque in Tengah is completed. This raises the question: what are the specific planning parameters to determine whether and when a mosque should be closed down, relocated, expanded or newly built? Does the Government have a target mosque-to-Muslim-resident population ratio, and if so, may we have some clarity on it?
Moreover, while we rely on planning parameters to determine how many mosques to build, we must also consider heritage beyond numbers.
For example, because of historical settlement patterns, we still have kampung-style mosques in sparsely populated areas, like Masjid Omar Salmah in Bukit Brown or Masjid Hang Jebat in Queenstown. These mosques may no longer have large congregations but still have long histories that carry meaning for the community.
When new housing estates are built, will it be the policy to rationalise the number of mosques by relocating or closing old mosques, like Masjid Al-Firdaus?
As the Minister noted, mosques are funded by the community through the Mosque Building and MENDAKI Fund (MBMF). Mosques have always been community resources and anchors of faith, history and identity, built through sacrifice and collective effort. How can we strike a better balance between prudent urban planning with heritage preservation?
Leaving a Lasting Legacy with Wakaf Masyarakat Singapura
Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik (Sengkang) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Since its launch on 3 August 2024, only 150 Muslims have designated Wakaf Masyarakat Singapura (WMS) as a beneficiary in their wills or nominations. This represents merely 0.1% of Muslims over 60 years old, and an even smaller fraction of our entire Muslim population. These numbers should give us pause.
WMS has the potential to become the financial backbone supporting the SCIS, ensuring the continuity of our madrasahs and covering the operating and leasing costs of our mosques. Beyond funding institutions and infrastructure, WMS funds are expected to flow toward social support programmes, education and youth development – investments that will shape the character and capability of future generations.
Without adequate contributions, we risk compromising the very institutions and programmes that preserve our religious heritage and nurture our community's potential.
WMS offers every Muslim in Singapore the opportunity to create this perpetual legacy, where there may be constrains to pledge other forms of Waqaf. Every contribution becomes a seed that continuously bears fruit – supporting students, sustaining places of worship and uplifting those in need.
I propose that we significantly expand community engagement through diverse platforms: mosques, community centres, schools, professional associations and student societies. These sessions should empower our community with knowledge of the potential profound spiritual and social impact of WMS.
I would like to ask the Minister:
First, how will the Ministry tailor outreach efforts to reach different segments of our Muslim community? Our community is beautifully diverse – Indian/Muslims, Chinese/Muslims, Arab/Muslims, Malay/Muslims, youth, professionals and seniors. Each group has unique perspectives and preferred communication channels. Will there be targeted programmes that resonate with their specific contexts?
Second, will the Ministry commit to full disclosure of the assets managed under the Fund and to provide regular updates to the estates of contributors once the Fund becomes active? When the community sees tangible evidence of the funds being used responsibly – that a student has graduated, a family has been supported, a mosque has been maintained – it reinforces trust and inspires others to follow suit.
From 150 contributors to thousands – this must be our trajectory. Every Muslim family should consider WMS in their legacy planning, not as an obligation, but as an opportunity to invest in eternity.
Journeying with Families
Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin (Ang Mo Kio) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Chairman, I want to address challenges facing many young families. Many belong to the "sandwich generation" and face pressure from rising cost of living, while balancing responsibilities of raising children and caring for aging parents. Sometimes, they bear all this without strong family support networks, unlike previous generations.
As a mother, I have went through the early stages of marriage and parenthood that was filled with joy. But when facing new experiences, feelings of confusion, fear and exhaustion may emerge. Preparing breakfast, adjusting to new routines, staying up when the child is crying – all while balancing work and family demands. This can affect the family's well-being.
In this regard, the Bersamamu Programme and Project ARIF have helped many young couples in early marriage and parenthood, providing religious guidance, medical perspectives and practical skills like financial planning.
May I ask about the latest developments on Project ARIF and Bersamamu Programme – how many young couples have benefited from these initiatives? Are there plans to expand services, especially in mental health and wellness support for young couples?
Additionally, can we consider strengthening collaboration with programmes like KidSTART so family support can be implemented continuously?
How will Government increase its outreach and ensure young couples know about these programmes?
With an increasing number of multi-generational families and seniors, our social landscape is clearly changing. I have often advocated on the need to focus on our seniors. At the national level, there are many efforts supporting seniors in their golden years. But can we consider support programmes for multi-generational families living under one roof and our seniors?
Using MENDAKI Funds
Mr Azhar Othman (Nominated Member) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Chairman, I would like to request that the Ministry consider allowing MENDAKI funds be used to establish a community of excellence. While we understand that most of the funds are set aside for education, it is important to recognise that the finances within this organisation is still robust.
We need to look beyond education as the sole pathway to success and explore other forms of achievement, like the arts, sports and career development. We want to ensure that every individual receives the necessary support and becomes the best version of themselves.
MENDAKI should also look into providing holistic support to families that encompasses financial literacy education and strengthening family bonds.
MENDAKI should be able to envision how this community can be developed and ensure that the programmes designed to support it are implemented holistically and professionally.
1.15 pm
Preparing Malay/Muslim Children for an AI Economy
Mr Saktiandi Supaat (Bishan-Toa Payoh) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, part of our AI transformation strategy must ensure that our children and youth are equipped not only to use technology, but are also able to create value with it.
In Toa Payoh recently, I met a Secondary 4 student who told me he was interested in AI. However, when asked further, he said he had never coded before and was not sure how to start. What he lacked was not aspiration, but exposure and guidance.
First, how do we assess the effectiveness of efforts to strengthen foundations in literacy, numeracy and digital confidence – especially for Malay/Muslim children who may lack learning support at home?
Second, how are programmes for Malay/Muslim youths aligned more closely with growth sectors – such as applied technology, advanced manufacturing and digital services – so that their participation truly opens pathways to good jobs?
Finally, beyond participation numbers, what outcome indicators are we tracking – such as participant progress and converting industry training into permanent employment – to ensure lasting impact?
Strengthening Support for Malay/Muslim Seniors
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, in our Malay/Muslim community, the family has always been the primary caregivers. Many of our seniors are supported by their children and grandchildren who provide companionship, financial help and daily assistance.
But as family structures evolve and working lives become more demanding, we should ask how do we sustainably support our seniors' social and mental well-being?
On the ground, we see seniors who are widowed and living alone, elderly parents who hesitate to burden their children, or caregivers quietly managing both work and eldercare responsibilities. Many of them do not openly express their difficulties.
This is why social and emotional support must go beyond the occasional event. It must be sustained, trusted and easily accessible.
First, how are we strengthening befriending programmes for seniors, peer support and community touchpoints so that seniors remain socially connected all year long? How can we bring back that "kampong spirit" amidst today's modern housing environment?
Second, what can we do to support caregivers within the Malay/Muslim community – especially those in the "sandwich generation" balancing work and parental care? Are there accessible support networks and early intervention channels to prevent caregiver burnout?
Third, aside from the number of programme attendees, what indicators do we use to measure actual impact – like reduced isolation, improved emotional wellbeing and stronger inter-generational engagement?
The Chairman : Mr Sharael Taha. You can take your three cuts together.
Developing the Potential of Our Youths
Mr Sharael Taha (Pasir Ris-Changi) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] (In Malay): Mr Chairman, our young people are the hope for our community's future. The MENDAKI Tuition Programme has greatly helped our students succeed in their studies. However, our children's future cannot depend on tuition alone.
The key question is: are we really preparing our young people for tomorrow's job market?
Today, the world is changing very rapidly. New industries, such as technology, AI, engineering and the digital economy are expanding. We want to see more of our young people dare to dream, be confident in their abilities and pursue future industries, such as aerospace, AI and cybersecurity.
The Government and community organisations need to have closer partnerships – not only in academic support, but also career exposure, mentorship guidance and real job opportunities.
At M 3 @Pasir Ris-Changi, we ran programmes, such as Learning Journey, RobotWars and Hackathons to expose our young people to the skills needed in new industries. However, these efforts need to be expanded further. With the establishment of Professional Networks across over 10 industries, how can we leverage these networks to increase awareness about new skills, career pathways and job opportunities, especially for our young people? How can these networks also partner schools, MENDAKI Tuition, M 3 programmes and youth organisations, so that more young people get early exposure to future industries?
Ecosystem of Support for Malay/Muslim Seniors
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] By 2030, Singapore will become an ageing society.
Many seniors visit the mosque daily – not just to pray, but to also seek peace, support and companionship. Mosques play a key role in the lives of our community.
Imagine if mosques could work more closely with agencies, such as Health Promotion Board and the Ministry of Health, as well as partners in the financial sector to provide comprehensive health, financial and social support – everything in a place that they trust and are familiar with.
In Pasir Ris-Changi, Masjid Al-Istighfar together with M 3 held a talk on Lasting Power of Attorney, conducted health screenings, as well as fitness activities, such as Yallah Run and Move with Mufti to support the well-being of our seniors.
My question is: How can mosques work more closely with these agencies to provide religious support as well as comprehensive assistance to congregants?
Supporting Malay/Muslim Businesses
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Chairman, the economy is evolving rapidly and we cannot simply be observers. With the establishment of the National AI Council, national AI Mission and AI Champions programme, many new opportunities are opening up.
The question is: are Malay/Muslim businesses ready to step forward into this new world?
Job Transitions for Malay/Muslim Youths
Dr Wan Rizal (Jalan Besar) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Sir, I would like to touch on youths transiting from higher education institutions, the Institute of Education (ITE), polytechnics and universities, to the working world.
This transition is an important occasion in every young person's life. In a rapidly changing economy, having a certificate or diploma is no longer enough.
Our youths need early exposure to growth sectors, an understanding of future skills, as well as closer relations with employers.
We want more youths entering good jobs in sectors, such as technology, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and AI-enabled roles, not by chance, but through clear and planned pathways.
Under Focus Area Four (FA4) of M 3 , there is scope to strengthen support for this transition in a more structured manner.
The unions and the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC) are ready to collaborate with MENDAKI, institutes of higher learning, employers and community partners, like MEMBINA Komuniti and 4PM, to enhance career guidance earlier on campus, provide channels to career coaching services and give advice on skills that are more targeted to growth sectors, expand access to industry mentors and professional networks, and lastly, open pathways, such as internships, place-and-train and entry-level roles in high-potential industries.
A more integrated approach like this can help ensure that our youths understand the available opportunities, build confidence and are ready to face the transition more assuredly.
However, this effort will be more effective if supported by strong coordination between Ministries, agencies and educational institutions, so that these transition pathways are well-structured, have clear outcomes and can be scaled up if proven effective.
Thus, I seek the Minister's views on: how does the Government plan to strengthen coordination between Ministries, institutes of higher learning and community partners so that this support for youth transition can be implemented more systematically, with measurable outcomes, and help more of our youth enter good jobs in growth sectors?
Malay Heritage Centre
Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi (Nee Soon) : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Language, tradition and culture are the pillars that strengthen our ethnic identity. These elements shape how we understand and appreciate our respective heritage, and help us find the balance that enables us to build together strength and unity within Singapore's diversity.
Could the Minister update us on the programmes in the works and the current status of the Malay Heritage Centre reopening, which is scheduled this April?
How can the Malay Heritage Centre continue to enhance awareness, knowledge and appreciation of Malay culture, particularly among young people, while contributing to wider efforts to strengthen social cohesion and our collective efforts in nation-building for the future?
Partnering Malay/Muslim and Indian/Muslim Organisations
Dr Hamid Razak (West Coast-Jurong West) : Mr Chairman, Sir, here in Singapore, we are very fortunate to have strong Malay/Muslim Organisations (MMOs), Indian/Muslim Organisations (IMOs) and other committed partners. But when efforts run in parallel, residents can face repeated touchpoints, gaps between services or a confusing hand-off from one organisation to the other.
This is where the M 3 network can play a practical, convening role, strengthening collaborations between MMOs and IMOs and other community partners, so strengths are combined and outreach is more coordinated on the ground. I have two questions for the Minister.
First, how can the M 3 network strengthen collaboration between MMOs, IMOs and other community partners, including shared referrals and joint planning, so individuals and families experience one coordinated pathway of help? Could the Minister consider adopting a "no wrong door" approach?
Second, will the Minister consider a common playbook for MMOs, IMOs and partners with simple navigation standards and a small, shared set of outcomes, to make outreach more seamless. In Malay, please.
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, I call upon our Malay/Muslim community organisations and grassroots bodies to work hand in hand, rather than operating separately.
Each organisation has its own strengths – some are strong in youth matters, some are strong in family issues, some are strong in education, careers or social services. If we coordinate our efforts, we can reach out to more people, faster and more effectively.
Let us complement each other, share clear frameworks and contribute according to our respective strengths, so that our community can achieve the vision of becoming the best version of ourselves, confident in our identity and continue contributing to Singapore.
( In English ): In Tamil, please.
( In Tamil ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, though the Indian/Muslim community is a small one, it has made sustained contributions to our nation building. The Indian/Muslim community today is diverse. There are many organisations. Every organisation has its own strengths. To seek solutions to the issues in our community, a whole-of-community effort is needed.
What does whole-of-community effort mean? Whole-of-community effort means that MMOs, IMOs and other community organisations must come together and work in unity to achieve our national objectives.
If we work together, our last-mile outreach will be more precise. Let us work together in endeavouring that our young people, our families and those in need progress forward together.
Building and Uplifting Bersama (Together)
Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim (East Coast) : Chairman, I will focus on three areas – the SCIS, strengthening support for Malay/Indian and/or Muslim organisations, and increasing social mobility for our families. Sir, in Malay.
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] The establishment of the SCIS represents an important step towards developing local religious leadership that is capable and attuned to Singapore's unique multicultural society, as well as being well-versed in Southeast Asian dynamics.
Many have high hopes in the success and credibility of SCIS, which is seen as a long-term investment for our community and Singapore.
Last month in Parliament, I posed questions to the Acting Minister regarding SCIS and felt encouraged by his clarification that the establishment of SCIS has been well-received by our regional partners.
Therefore, to bolster confidence in SCIS, it is essential to share information about the efforts that will ensure its quality, governance and desired outcomes.
May I seek clarification on how SCIS will ensure quality control of its programmes, so that graduates will be able to guide our community in the future and concurrently contribute to Singapore?
Beyond academic qualifications, to what extent will the targeted standards emphasise strong religious understanding, comprehensive spiritual capabilities, as well as competencies of graduates guiding the Muslim community in facing current social challenges?
1.30 pm
Mr Chairman, as someone who has served over a decade at PPIS – one of the largest MMOs – and a member of the first cohort of the Tunas programme, I deeply understand, cherish and respect our MMOs and IMOs.
The majority of MMOs and IMOs were established before 1965, and have endured to this day – they weathered all storms and stood the test of time.
Each one remains focused on their individual objectives, be it strengthening families and empowering women, supporting workers, nurturing youth or guiding children.
They are experienced organisations that serve as pillars of community trust. MMOs and IMOs are assets to our community.
Therefore, they should be prioritised as long-term strategic partners, with their sustainability being given due attention.
At present, Yayasan MENDAKI has been working to ensure more can benefit from Community Leaders Forum (CLF) funds – a vital effort that must continue. I seek for a summary from the Acting Minister on the CLF fund utilisation rate by MMOs/IMOs and what new initiatives exist to encourage greater uptake.
Secondly, when Kurnia@WGS was launched with the opening of Wisma Geylang Serai in 2019, it sought to unite MMOs and IMOs, making it easier for the community to receive holistic support.
Since January this year, it is understood that these two offices have been merged with M 3 @Geylang Serai to foster closer cooperation.
I hope the Acting Minister can share more about the achievements and future plans of Kurnia@WGS, and whether this effort will be expanded to other M 3 towns, especially M 3 @Bedok under my purview.
Mr Chairman, regardless of the operator, whether M 3 , MMOs/IMOs or social service agencies, the mission remains the same – to enhance the quality of life of our community for a brighter future.
Therefore, Singapore's efforts to actively support vulnerable families must continue.
The challenges faced by these families, Mr Chairman, are extremely complex – ranging from financial pressures and health issues to family relationships, employment and even housing matters.
Fortunately, assistance is available from various entities, such as Family Service Centres, Social Service Offices, MMOs, ComLink, Project Dian by M 3 and others. Could the Acting Minister please summarise how effective this support ecosystem is for vulnerable families, and share the latest information as well as future plans to enhance Project Dian?
( In English ): Chairman, good policy must translate in real life. If coordination exists only on paper, families continue to bear the burden of navigating systems. There has to be shared practice standards, clear referral pathways for continuity of care.
Beyond programmes and subsidies, social capital itself matters too. Community platforms that build social capital, such as professional networks, alumni networks or across community connections, play an important role for social mobility. For social mobility to be sustained across generations, we must be intentional to invest beyond services and subsidies, but in social capital to open doors of opportunities.
Chairman, as it is often said in the House these past two weeks: where you start should not determine where you can go.
The Chairman : Acting Minister Assoc Prof Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim.
The Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs (Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim) : Mr Chairman, with your permission, I will take clarifications after my speech.
Mr Chairman, let me say a few words on the situation in the Middle East. Our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent civilians in the affected region. The fact that these attacks took place during the holy month of Ramadan deepens the pain felt by many. We are closely monitoring the situation together with colleagues from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
I had a video call last night with some of our Singaporean students in the Middle East. They were understandably concerned but are staying calm. I assured them that their safety and well-being is our top priority. We will continue to stay in close contact with them and render any support we can.
We are also in touch with the Association of Muslim Travel Agents (AMTAS). They have advised their member agencies to help affected Umrah travellers with adjustments to their travel plans when needed.
These recent events are a stark reminder that the peace and harmony we have in Singapore is especially precious, and we cannot take it for granted. There is a Malay saying: "sehati menghadapi, sepakat membangun," it means to stand united in overcoming challenges and to work together to build a better future.
This has always been a defining strength of all Singaporeans, and particularly of the Malay/Muslim community. It has helped our community achieve remarkable progress over the years. We have built stronger marriages and more resilient families. Our children are better educated, and many have found good jobs across different sectors of the economy.
We are able to practise our faith, celebrate our culture with pride and live in harmony with friends from other races, religions and cultures. Despite the progress, I recognise that everyone has a different lived experience. During my engagements with the community, I also hear concerns about job security. Some have shared difficulties in trying to access help, and others have called for greater support for those struggling in silence. It is crucial that as we move forward, we ensure that nobody gets left behind.
Mr Chairman, many have asked me what my vision for the community is. While we might each have different circumstances, I envision a Malay/Muslim community where every member can be the best version of themselves at every stage of their lives.
I speak not just for myself, but for my fellow Parliamentary colleagues, our Government agencies, our MMOs, IMOs, volunteers and many others who give of themselves generously every day. Because of them, no member of our community should ever have to walk alone.
By Moving Forward Together, With One Heart, we can achieve our vision to help every member of our community thrive. We will do so through three key pillars.
First, we will uplift individuals across all life stages to provide them with opportunities to succeed. Second, we will develop trusted religious institutions to enrich our community religious life. Third, we will nurture a vibrant cultural sector that celebrates our unique Singaporean Malay arts, culture and identity.
First, we want to uplift individuals and provide them with opportunities to excel at every life stage. Some are already doing well and with the right inspiration, they can reach even greater heights. Others may need an extra helping hand to succeed.
As Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin mentioned, strong families are key to this, as they are the bedrock of our community and society. They nurture values, like responsibility and empathy, shape our identity as a person and build our confidence to navigate life's challenges. Strong families begin with stable marriages, which is why the Bersamamu programme has been so vital to our Muslim community.
Since its launch in 2019, Bersamamu has supported over 36,000 couples, providing access to marriage support and guidance from our Kadi and Naib Kadi. They serve as trusted advisors throughout the couple's early marriage years.
As an example, Mr Radzi Barian Arlandito and Ms Risa Shigemi, a Singaporean-Japanese couple, have benefited greatly from Bersamamu. Their Naib Kadi, Ustaz Mohammed Nazim Bin Rahuma Dulla, provided invaluable advice to help them navigate cultural differences, religious practices and family dynamics. As a mentor to the couple, Ustaz Nazim provided spiritual guidance and connected them with like-minded couples facing similar situations.
To help more couples, like Mr Radzi and Ms Risa, we will be expanding the Bersamamu programme to further strengthen marriage support for Muslim couples.
We will increase the pool of Kadi and Naib Kadi by about 50%, to better support newly wed Muslim couples, especially those who need more assistance. These couples can benefit from additional post-solemnisation face-to-face sessions, to ensure they get a stronger start in their marriage journey.
We will also make it easier for the community to access marriage support services, by deploying family development officers to selected mosques around Singapore. These officers will guide couples through the various national and community programmes that best address their needs, including those with dual caregiving responsibilities.
Taken together, couples can get more help and targeted follow-up for those in higher-risk marriages, so that issues are addressed early before they escalate into crisis.
We will also expand the Bersamamu programme to include parenthood support, for more seamless assistance from marriage to parenthood.
Under the pilot run of Project ARIF, mothers received integrated support from their Kadi and Naib Kadi as well as the medical social workers and healthcare professionals from KK Women's and Children's Hospital. This includes those who do not qualify for KidSTART, so that they continue to receive the necessary support. Some 5,000 couples have benefited from the pilot and demonstrated improved maternal and child health outcomes, in terms of babies completing mandatory immunisations and being breastfed for at least three months.
Starting from June 2026, we will include Project ARIF as a permanent component under the Bersamamu programme. From marriage guidance to parenting support, we are broadening the continuum of care to foster more resilient families and give our children the best headstart in life.
Mr Chairman, we want to provide every child the necessary support and pathways to enable them to seize opportunities for success, regardless of their background. Our community has made significant strides in educational achievement, and investment in education remains a key focus, but I agree with Mr Azhar Othman that we can do more to help every child reach their fullest potential in other areas too.
That is why MENDAKI's 2030 Workplan, which I recently launched with Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad, goes beyond nurturing confident learners and includes building stronger families, supporting a future-ready workforce and growing a thriving community.
We recognise that excellence begins early and at home, which is why MENDAKI has strengthened its suite of programmes to support the parenting journey. From April this year, parents can look forward to ReadySetLearn (RSL) Roadshows held in the heartlands, providing convenient access to workshops and resources on supporting their children's holistic growth.
A key component of this support is RSL Maths Explorer, formerly KelasMateMatika, which prepares parents to guide their pre-schoolers in numeracy skills and prepare for math in Primary 1. The results speak for themselves – nine in 10 participating pre-schoolers of this programme entered Primary 1 without requiring Learning Support for Math.
MENDAKI will expand the efforts and roll out RSL Language Explorer, a reading programme designed to equip parents to nurture early literacy in both English and Malay. Together, these programmes will build confidence and strengthen learning, laying the foundation for long-term academic success.
Mr Chairman, for children from families facing greater challenges, attending school regularly can be difficult for various reasons, such as when parents work shifts or when they must care for younger siblings at home. These last-mile gaps prevent them from participating fully in their education, and in turn may affect their holistic development. We are determined to close these gaps by providing the customised support that these children and their families need.
So, I am glad that MENDAKI and the Ministry of Education (MOE), with the support of the Ministry of Social and Family Development and MCCY, have embarked on a pilot programme at selected schools at Tampines to strengthen after-school care and support for our children from Malay/Muslim families who need additional help.
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For some families and their children, the help needed could be to provide them better nutrition, a study desk at home or alternative childcare arrangements. For others, it could be connecting them to a trusted mentor who can address motivational issues.
So, under this pilot, a MENDAKI Care Advisor will work with each identified child's family, school or other social service professionals to understand their unique needs and develop an individualised care plan for the child. The partnership between the school and community will provide academic and non-academic support to complement existing school efforts.
This pilot has been launched earlier this year, and I want to thank the participating schools and MENDAKI who have worked tirelessly to make this partnership possible and grassroots advisers Dr Charlene Chen and Acting Minister David Neo, for suggesting this approach to address the needs of students in Tampines who need that additional help. Together, we ensure that no child gets left behind because of circumstances.
Mr Saktiandi Supaat asked how Malay/Muslim educational initiatives are evolving to prepare our youths for an AI-driven economy, while Mr Sharael Taha asked how MENDAKI can better prepare our children and youths for the future through mentorship and awareness of pathways.
Mr Chairman, MENDAKI's Tuition Programme has helped many students improve in their academic journey. But we cannot rely on tuition alone to prepare our students for the future. This is why MENDAKI has enhanced the programme to the MENDAKI Achievement Programme with two new focus areas.
The first is enrichment, where students will have opportunities to be exposed to programmes in areas, such as AI exploration and robotics. The second area is engagement, where students will be exposed to various education and career pathways.
Today, MENDAKI's Youth Mentoring Office has helped to match mentors to more than 2,500 youths, from Secondary 3 to undergraduates. MENDAKI will be expanding its mentoring programme to start earlier, from Secondary 1 students. This will enable more students and parents to be connected to support systems, such as MENDAKI's Professional Networks, to help them make more informed education and career choices.
Dr Wan Rizal asked how we can support our youths in job transitions. We will create more platforms for our youths to connect and learn from professionals who have succeeded in their chosen fields, as they prepare to enter the workforce.
MENDAKI has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with NTUC's Employment and Employability Institute (e2i) to strengthen AI readiness through targeted workshops and community engagement initiatives. It also seeks to expand access to career advisory services, skills development pathways and employment opportunities. These efforts will put our youths on a better footing to make informed decisions about their career pathways and seize opportunities in growth industries.
Last October, we launched the Malay/Muslim Youth Taskforce, led by Minister of State Rahayu and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Dr Syed Harun to hear from our youths their views on career development, identity and values and how they could contribute to society. Through this taskforce, we hope to keep our policies relevant, and our youths invested in Singapore's future.
The taskforce has since appointed 13 youth consultants, who are leaders from diverse fields including entrepreneurship, sports, digital media, technology, religion and the social sector. They have lined up a series of Youth Conversations in partnership with M 3 agencies and the National Youth Council, which will capture the perspectives of youths on various issues close to their hearts and co-create initiatives in support of the national SG Youth Plan. I look forward to hearing their views on bringing the community forward at the upcoming M 3 Youth Festival in August.
I have spoken in detail about our youths, but we must also remember our seniors who have given so much of themselves to build a better future for us. Both Mr Saktiandi Supaat and Mr Sharael Taha have asked about how we intend to strengthen holistic support for seniors in our community. I share their concern.
We must ensure our seniors continue to thrive in their golden years. Our Malay/Muslim seniors shared with me that they are doing well but wish to connect more widely and meaningfully with others. Mr Chairman, ageing well is just as much about companionship, dignity and purpose as it is about health and well-being.
So, I was very heartened when Masjid Al-Muttaqin, in collaboration with Ma:een and Muhammadiyah Active Ageing Centre, initiated Santunan Emas, a holistic ground-up effort to provides our seniors and caregivers with religious guidance, social engagement activities and healthcare support.
The programme has since expanded with the support of other mosques, such as Masjid Darul Makmur and Masjid Yusof Ishak, benefiting close to 900 seniors weekly. These mosques also work with partners like the Agency for Integrated Care, National Healthcare Group and the Singapore Hospice Council to reach out to our seniors in nursing homes and hospices.
I recently attended the Santunan Emas roadshow at Masjid Darul Ghufran and witnessed how our mosques, partner agencies and volunteers engage our seniors and their caregivers to support them in different areas of need. This ecosystem of care affirmed the need for a targeted programme for our Malay/Muslim seniors that is developed by the community and for the community.
I have therefore asked MUIS and the People's Association (PA) to support Santunan Emas' efforts, and to help rally resources and agencies across health, social, financial and religious domains.
For example, MUIS will work with Santunan Emas networks at local mosques to identify needs and facilitate partnerships with other community organisations, as well as with healthcare providers to enhance healthcare. PA, with its grassroots network, can also rally fellow seniors to serve as befrienders, mentors and active members of the community. This way, we strengthen not only our services, but also the culture of care and dignity for our seniors.
Mr Chairman, let me turn to our businesses and workers now.
The Prime Minister has outlined comprehensive support measures for businesses in recognition of the challenging economic climate, including a corporate tax rebate. The Budget also provides a booster shot for our businesses and workers to transform for the longer term, including to expand to new markets, to reskill and upskill and to adopt new technologies like AI. Lower-wage workers, in particular, will benefit from the enhancements to the Progressive Wage Credit and Workfare Skills Support schemes, while workers making a career transition will benefit from the expanded SkillsFuture Level-Up programme. I encourage our Malay/Muslim enterprises and workers to make good use of these schemes.
Mr Sharael Taha asked how Malay/Muslim businesses can participate meaningfully in the digital and AI economy. The Government has announced that it intends to harness AI as a strategic advantage. The Champions of AI programme, enhancements to the Enterprise Innovation Scheme and expansion of the Productivity Solutions Grant will be implemented to help businesses confidently transform and grow using AI.
The pursuit of AI must translate into better outcomes, such as stronger livelihoods and more opportunities, so that our community can progress with confidence in this AI economy.
That is why we must make upskilling practical and accessible. As Minister of State Rahayu shared at the Ministry of Digital Development and Information's Committee of Supply (COS) debate, workers can upskill through Langkah Digital, an M 3 initiative spearheaded by MENDAKI to strengthen AI and digital literacy amongst our community. This will be done through practical workshops and events to help the community understand how best to make use of AI. This will complement national measures announced by the Prime Minister, including the six months of free access to premium versions of AI tools, to help our community move from learning to applying AI and benefiting from it in their jobs.
Mr Chairman, the efforts I have shared reflect our unwavering commitment to uplifting every member of our community. In doing so, we hope that they are able to contribute back to strengthen the entire community.
Sir, our mosques are at the heart of our community religious life. They are not just places of worship, but community hubs that foster spiritual growth and promote wellness, where faith comes alive through collective prayers, learning and service to others. To stay relevant, our mosques must remain forward-looking and be able to adapt to the evolving needs of our community.
Mr Fadli Fawzi asked how we plan for the development and closure of mosques. As I have shared in this House, MUIS takes into consideration key factors that contribute to the demand for prayer spaces, such as projected population changes, as well as land development plans, including the building of new housing estates. Mosque heritage is important to us. Where mosques have heritage value, MUIS will work closely with mosque leaders and agencies to preserve them, including in situations where relocation is necessary.
We are committed to ensuring our community's religious needs are sufficiently met as Singapore continues to grow. Beyond infrastructure, our mosques provide various programmes that encourage community building. I agree with Ms Mariam Jaafar that our mosques can play a larger role in partnering youths to improve their well-being.
Initiatives, like the NEXTGEN SG Mosque Youth Symposium and mosque dialogue with Mufti, allow our youths to engage our religious leadership on contemporary issues, explore specific concerns of the young and develop ideas to address real issues grounded in faith. Our pastoral care programmes also provide spiritual guidance and support to those facing life's difficulties. This also includes doing activities together. It is not only about dialogues. The mosque leaders and youth go out and spend time and that is where they learn from one another. We will look into the useful suggestions that Ms Mariam Jaafar has raised earlier.
Our asatizah help the community navigate modern issues, such as social challenges, technological advancements and geopolitical conflicts. Being an asatizah today requires not just deep religious knowledge, but the ability to connect with people and bridge different communities with wisdom and compassion. It is crucial that our asatizah embody these values, engage with empathy and develop relevant skills to be effective guides to the community in today's complex global landscape.
Mr Chairman, this is precisely why we must continue developing our religious leadership, and one of our most significant investments in this area is the SCIS. Dr Syed Harun asked how we will ensure that SCIS' programmes will maintain high standards of Islamic scholarship while still meeting the needs of the local Muslim community.
SCIS will be led by our Mufti and supported by distinguished scholars. The curriculum will be inter-disciplinary, incorporating social sciences modules to give our future asatizah well-rounded perspectives and boost their employability in the religious and adjacent sectors.
We are making good progress. SCIS remains on track to open in 2028. We have signed an MOU with the Singapore University of Social Sciences, and we are finalising other partnerships with institutions in Egypt, Jordan and Morocco. The SCIS campus development at Rochor is also underway.
Mr Chairman, our mosques, madrasahs and the SCIS are institutions collectively owned by our community. Mr Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik asked for updates on the WMS. I am happy to share that MUIS has held over 20 outreach initiatives together with various partners, reaching out to different segments, including workers, seniors and the Indian/Muslim community. We have also appointed WMS ambassadors to expand our outreach efforts.
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As of February 2026, the WMS has raised over $8.5 million, with contributions from over 15,400 transactions. I strongly encourage those with the means to give back to the community, and this will ensure the financial sustainability of our social and religious needs for generations to come. Only when our religious institutions are strong, are we able to nurture an enriching community religious life.
Mr Chairman, our rich Singapore Malay culture and heritage anchor our identity and sense of community and define us as distinctively Singaporean Malay.
I have always enjoyed attending our community's cultural events. I had the privilege of experiencing Gentarasa SG60 last November. I was struck by the artistic excellence, passion and dedication of the performers who brought our traditions to life with such authenticity. Our cultural expressions serve as vehicles for storytelling, identity formation and intergenerational connection, helping our young understand their cultural roots while inspiring them to contribute their own creative voices to our evolving cultural narrative.
At the heart of our culture and heritage lies the Malay Heritage Centre (MHC) in Kampong Gelam.
Dr Syed Harun asked for an update on the MHC's reopening. The MHC will reopen in April this year with Pesta Pecah Panggung – Transcending Boundaries, a festival featuring programmes by over 60 partners showcasing the best of Singapore and Nusantara arts, youth talent and community creativity. I strongly encourage everyone to join these celebrations.
The revitalised MHC will have an expanded mission that goes beyond its traditional role as a repository of artefacts and exhibits. It will become a vibrant hub that offers a variety of programmes, like festivals for children and youth, regular film screenings and community-driven showcases to take the cultural development and placemaking of Kampong Gelam to the next level.
Central to this expanded role will be the MHC's function in deepening documentation and research on Malay culture and heritage as a resource for practitioners and the community.
The MHC will establish a research unit led by an advisory panel with Dr Norshahril Saat as the chair to build a comprehensive body of knowledge about Singapore Malay heritage. This unit will work with stakeholders to identify areas of focus and support long-term aid research by academics and community groups.
Through this effort, we will ensure our cultural narratives are not just preserved, but actively studied, understood and shared with future generations.
However, research and documentation are not enough. We need living practitioners, like Puan Jumaini Ariff, to keep our traditions alive. Puan Jumaini is a passionate practitioner of traditional storytelling who never fails to dazzle with her craft. She speaks fondly of it and shares her hopes for a new generation to continue the tradition of a Penglipur Lara. As I was speaking, I could remember how she was doing it when I was engaging her.
The MHC has also launched an Intangible Cultural Heritage Mentorship Programme, connecting experienced practitioners with young enthusiasts over a 10-week structured programme. This initiative embodies our commitment to ensuring cultural knowledge and skills get passed down seamlessly from one generation to the next, culminating in showcases through MHC, where mentees can demonstrate their newly acquired expertise and contribute fresh perspectives to age-old traditions.
When our culture is alive and vibrant, it not only becomes a source of pride for us, but it enriches the multicultural fabric that makes Singapore special.
Mr Chairman, I have outlined our plans to strengthen our community across the three pillars.
We will uplift individuals by providing them opportunities to succeed at every stage of their lives. We will enrich our community religious life by developing trusted religious institutions. And we will nurture a vibrant cultural sector that celebrates our unique identity.
These goals build on the solid foundation that our community leaders have already established over the years.
For instance, M 3 brings together MENDAKI, MUIS and the People's Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council (PA MESRA) to address community issues through focus areas and M 3 @Towns. However, as Dr Hamid Razak and Ms Hazlina Halim have pointed out, we must broaden our collaborative networks to achieve these goals.
We will therefore expand and rebrand M 3 to M 3 +. We want to emphasise greater collaborations between M 3 agencies and our community partners as we strategise nationally in each of the focus areas and deliver programmes at the M 3 @Towns level.
I hope that M 3 + will better recognise the specialised knowledge and community links of MMOs, IMOs, informal groups and individual contributors who are already doing excellent work on the ground. In fact, this is already being done in some areas.
For example, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the M 3 Engagement Coordination Office at PA have been working with Jamiyah's Darul Islah Halfway House, Pertapis's Halfway House and PPIS's Rise Above Halfway House to strengthen the rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. They have facilitated training sessions for over 300 ex-offenders to develop financial and practical skills that will empower them to build sustainable futures for themselves and their families.
At the town level, the Association of Muslim Professionals has also worked with M 3 @Woodlands to conduct a micro business programme to equip budding entrepreneurs with knowledge, such as financial management, business ideation and marketing to build sustainable micro businesses. One of the programme participants, Mr Muhammad Nor Hafiz, was able to transform his seasonal cookie sales into a thriving family business called Chonkery.sg.
MMOs, IMOs and other community partners can tap on a variety of community resources to support these efforts. For instance, in 2025, MENDAKI disbursed more than $2 million from the Community Leaders' Forum Fund, which Ms Hazlina spoke about.
As Dr Hamid Razak and Ms Hazlina rightly pointed out, many of our MMOs and IMOs also provide services directly to families. It is important that we facilitate collaboration and improve coordination by bringing together M 3 agencies and our community partners to develop better ways of working together.
This includes ongoing efforts under Project DIAN, where we have reached out to over 900 families as at end 2025. We will launch this exciting next phase in April 2026, beginning with an M 3 + Networking Session.
Some of the ideas include putting together a directory of services that our MMO and IMO partners offer so that our M 3 Focus Area leads and M 3 @Towns can systematically work with these community organisations to identify new opportunities and greater synergies for better programme delivery and to close last-mile gaps.
I thank Dr Hamid and Ms Hazlina for their suggestions and encourage our MMOs, IMOs and individuals to step forward and co-create M 3 + with us.
Together with this effort, we will continue to develop the next generation of community leaders through the TUNAS programme.
TUNAS brings together emerging community leaders to build their capabilities through knowledge exchange and networking, developing common projects and mentorship from senior community leaders. To date, two cohorts of leaders have completed the TUNAS programme. We will welcome the third cohort later this year.
These TUNAS graduates will help drive M 3 + forward by connecting partners, identifying opportunities for collaboration and leading ground efforts so that support reaches those in need more seamlessly. Mr Chaiman, in Malay, please.
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, my vision for the Malay/Muslim community is for us to move forward together with one heart and a shared purpose. With the spirit of "Moving Forward Together, With One Heart", we aim to provide opportunities and support so that every individual can be the best version of themselves at every stage of their lives.
We can achieve this vision through three key pillars. First, by uplifting the social and economic outcomes of the community; second, by strengthening religious institutions and cultivating a vibrant religious life; and third, by nurturing Malay arts, culture and heritage.
The Bersamamu programme has supported over 36,000 couples, will be enhanced by increasing the pool of Kadi and Naib Kadi by about 50%, and deploying Family Development Officers to selected mosques. In addition, Project ARIF will become a permanent programme to help couples throughout their journey from marriage to parenthood.
In childhood education, the RSL programme will be expanded through roadshows held in the heartlands, while the RSL Language Explorer will be launched to complement the RSL Maths Explorer. The MENDAKI Achievement Programme will provide students with early exposure to AI and robotics, while MENDAKI's Mentoring Programme will be expanded to include Secondary 1 student, to support students comprehensively in their education journey.
For students who need additional help, I am pleased that MENDAKI and MOE have launched a pilot programme in selected schools in Tampines. With support from the Ministry of Social and Family Development, MCCY and community partners, we can strengthen after-school care and support, helping students attend school consistently and improve their academic performance.
For our seniors, MUIS and PA will support the Santunan Emas programme and its holistic approach which is crucial in an ageing society. It will provide religious guidance, social engagement activities and healthcare support for seniors and their caregivers. This programme requires strong partnership with all stakeholders: mosques, community partners, families and Government. Through this collective effort, we can ensure our seniors receive the support they need and lead meaningful lives in their golden years.
Mosques will continue to play a key role as dynamic community hubs to strengthen community bonds, address social needs and meet the needs of religious life that is constantly evolving.
The SCIS will open in 2028. We have signed an MOU with SUSS to offer an inter-disciplinary curriculum for undergraduate programmes. We are also finalising partnerships with Islamic educational institutions in Egypt, Jordan and Morocco. These efforts aim to produce a pipeline of asatizah who are more capable and ready to guide the community in addressing complex contemporary issues.
The Malay Heritage Centre will reopen in April this year. It will serve as the cultural heartbeat of Singapore's Malay community, bringing together festivals, film screenings and community-based exhibitions, to enliven and enrich Kampong Gelam. The centre will shape the future direction of our culture, supported by a research unit, with an advisory panel led by Dr Norshahril Saat.
The Intangible Cultural Heritage Mentorship Programme was launched to connect practitioners with the young generation. This programme will run for 10 weeks to ensure our knowledge and traditions continue to be preserved and developed across time.
Sir, to expand M 3 's impact, we must broaden our collaboration with partners beyond the MENDAKI, MUIS and MESRA network. Therefore, I will launch M 3 +, to involve MMOs, IMOs, informal groups and individuals who want to contribute more comprehensively.
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M 3 + will strengthen the support provided. Each M 3 @Town and Focus Area will work closely with MMOs and IMOs, informal groups and individuals who aspire to serve the community. They will explore new opportunities where efforts can be coordinated more effectively.
This network will be launched in April 2026, starting with an M 3 + networking session.
Additionally, the TUNAS programme will continue developing the next generation of community leaders through knowledge exchange, networking and mentorship from senior community leaders.
M 3 + represents a continuation of the spirit of cooperation that has long been our community's strength, based on the principle of Moving Forward Together, With One Heart.
Let us move forward, with one heart and strive to be the best version at every stage of our lives.
For example, Mdm Latipah Binte Abdul Rahman first joined the Santunan Emas programme as a participant in October 2024 to seek spiritual guidance and social support. Now, she serves as a volunteer coordinator who organises the welcome committee, prepares refreshments and conducts exercise sessions and craft classes. The knowledge and experience gained had motivated her to give back to the community. Mdm Latipah's story shows how a programme participant can embody the spirit of One Heart and subsequently emerge as a contributor who helps the community to progress. This is the transformation we want to see in every member of our community.
( In English ): Mr Chairman, I spoke about the recent developments that have unfolded in the Middle East at the beginning of my speech. During times of global uncertainty, it becomes even more important for us to strengthen the bonds that keep us united. External conflicts must never divide us. As Singaporeans, we must stand together, support one another and maintain the mutual respect and understanding that define our society.
I have shared my vision for our community, to cultivate a thriving community where every member can be the best version of themselves. I have outlined how we will achieve this vision through three pillars that address every dimension of our community's development.
Through these three pillars, we ensure that every member of our community can build secure and prosperous futures while remaining grounded in the values and rich culture that define us as a community.
Throughout this speech, I have shared stories of individuals who embody the spirit of "Bersatu Hati, Maju Bersama", each serving as sources of inspiration in their own right.
Mr Radzi and Ms Risa show us how strong foundations enable families to thrive. Puan Jumaini demonstrates how dedication to preserving heritage becomes a valuable contribution to future generations. Mr Muhammad Nor Hafiz exemplifies how entrepreneurial spirit, when supported by the community, transforms aspirations into success and opportunity. Puan Latipah's journey from participant to volunteer coordinator embodies the meaningful cycle of receiving support and giving back that strengthens our community.
These individuals illustrate the essence of a "we first" society, where personal development contributes to collective progress and where every act of service creates positive impact throughout our community. This is the spirit we hope to see everyone in our community embody.
As we move forward, we will continue strengthening support by building capable, trusted institutions and more importantly, by engaging one another closely on issues that are close to our hearts.
Our true strength lies in our collective spirit, the same spirit that sees neighbours helping neighbours, organisations collaborating across boundaries and leaders emerging to serve the greater good. We have much to look forward to in our collective future. Let us do so by moving forward together, with one heart. [ Applause .]
The Chairman : Are there any clarifications for the Acting Minister? Ms Hazlina Abdul Rahim.
Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim : I thank the Acting Minister. Having shared with us the developments of your engagement with students in Middle East, could you also give us an update as to some early plans the Government may be making with regard to planning ahead of the Haj season?
Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim : Sir, I thank the Member for the supplementary question. I shared about how we are continuously engaging our students in the Middle East. In fact, I had a very good session with them last night, more than an hour. No doubt, they are very concerned, but they asked mainly for advice on what they should do and the various scenarios. And we just also heard Minister of State Gan Siow Huang's message earlier.
The message that I shared with them was to continue to be connected and also, look after one another. This is something that they have been getting. MUIS have been working very closely with them. Quite a number of them also experienced incidents in June. For the seniors, they are able to handle and manage this better than the juniors. Quite a number also shared about how they can continue attending classes. So, you see a different type of steps being taken by the different countries: some are doing it online; others still have face-to-face classes.
One thing that I also shared with them is to also keep in touch with their families. As expected, many of the family members are very concerned. I, in fact, asked them to give more updates. For many, they update their families once a day. I suggested, maybe up to two times, so that their families/parents can be assured.
For Umrah, as I shared, we are in touch with AMTAS. AMTAS released an advisory where it concurred with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' (MFA's) advisory. For those who are already in Saudi Arabia, I urge them to register with MFA so that they can receive timely updates, as the situation develops. And for others who wish to make changes to their travel plans, I would like to thank AMTAS who have been reaching out to the travel agents to exercise understanding and to see how we can help travellers to review, postpone, or make travel arrangements for affected travel plans.
For Haj, as at today, we are in close contact with Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Hajj and Umrah. To-date, all preparation for the Haj 2026 season continues uninterrupted. So, we will closely monitor the latest developments. Above all, the safety of our pilgrims remains our utmost priority.
The Chairman : Dr Syed Harun.
Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi : Chairman, I thank the Acting Minister for sharing about the revamped Malay Heritage Centre, as well as setting up the research unit. In some ways, we are looking back towards wanting to preserve the heritage and traditions of the Malay community. But I wonder whether there are initiatives to be able to celebrate and also share and showcase our unique Malay identity towards others, so that we can celebrate the diversity that we have here in Singapore.
Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim : Sir, I thank the Member for the supplementary question. You can see the expanded role of the Malay Heritage Centre goes beyond just cultural preservation. It will showcase how Singaporean Malay identity has evolved into something truly distinctive. It comes along with a deeply rooted Malay identity and traditions perspective, but we have to recognise that our identity is uniquely and precisely being shaped by our multicultural environment. And this is where you see many Malays have excelled across many sectors and they come forward to contribute, regardless of race, language or religion, and all these are also being done while deeply rooted to our culture and faith. So, this balance is what sets our Singaporean Malays apart from the rest.
And if you look at the Intangible Cultural Heritage Mentorship programme, it will help us to continue this journey. We have built this process of building our community and nation over the years, where you can see certain values in the Malay community that exemplify Singapore as a whole as well, in terms of its self-determination, openness and resilience. And that has enabled the Malay community here to be able to continue, while keeping to its tradition and identity, to strive for success and excel in their life.
We are also setting up the research unit. The research unit will look at various aspects of this journey as well, but looking at, in terms of the heritage tradition, the arts and culture and cultural history and Nusantara. Some of these will present opportunities for our people, including non-Malays, to come on board this journey and share the joy of our nation building.
So, it is something exciting, something that we have built together. I would like to deepen this journey with the community. My hope is that anyone who visits Malay Heritage Centre or takes part in the programme will know that this is a distinctively unique Singaporean Malay identity that has progressed and something that we should be proud of.
The Chairman : Mr Saktiandi Supaat.
Mr Saktiandi Supaat : Chairman, can I ask my first clarification in Malay?
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, caring for our elderly is not just about programmes – it is about strengthening values like respect, responsibility and compassion in our families and communities. So, I welcome the holistic approach the Minister described for helping our elderly.
I would like to ask whether this programme's budget and resources can be given some kind of stimulus to cover infrastructure costs at mosques and other venues, because Singapore is ageing so rapidly that it is crucial we improve these facilities.
Secondly, will the Santunan Emas assistance consider the caregivers in our community, especially the "sandwich generation"?
( In English ): The second clarification, Mr Chairman, the Minister mentioned about the MENDAKI Achievement Programme about helping AI exploration and robotics. I was wondering if the Minister can share a bit more, whether we can enhance and increase the budget and resources for MENDAKI, so that these efforts can be increased, especially when the Government, in this year's Budget, has been talking about AI Missions and AI Champions. So, whether within the Malay/Muslim community, we can get extra budget for this course as well?
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Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim : Sir, I thank the Member for the supplementary questions.
Relating to the second supplementary question about enrichment, if you look at the MENDAKI 2030 Workplan, you will see that there are elements of, not only about education, but about how we want to support workers on this journey of AI and preparing our community for the future.
As shared, the programme is spearheaded by Minister of State Rahayu "Langkah Digital" is another area where it gives us another opportunity to expand our outreach in a way that can help the community.
I also am very heartened that not only the programmes done by MENDAKI are reaching out to the people, but the professional networks that we have developed over the years have really grown significantly. A few of us or all of us may have attended some of the programmes of the professional networks. I was very heartened. I attended one on the aviation sector. Professionals in the past were not there to be part of the engagement. Today, they are there and they provide the additional impetus, support. This also goes beyond funding.
I think in the way we develop our community, we have to bring in as much resources as there are out there. Especially those who have done well, to come back, give back, and mentor and nurture and provide the impetus for each and every one of our children, even those who are still working, to have that aspiration to develop further.
On the first point.
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] On the first point, the Santunan Emas programme is a ground-up programme that is also holistic. But what is interesting about this programme is how it collaborates with organisations or agencies, like Agency for Integrated Care and NHG Health.
When I heard about this programme, I received feedback that it is very engaging and sparked the interest of our seniors. They told me they want to hear religious sermons or words of encouragement from Ustaz Fatris, and I can see this is something very appealing.
When I explored further, I found that this programme is not just about religion, but it also provides life guidance like taking care of one's health, and for caregivers and their family members, as well as how we can prepare for our golden years. I see it as a very good platform for us to extend our outreach.
Therefore, as I mentioned, I have instructed MUIS and PA MESRA to look at how we can support this effort so that we can reach out to more members of our community and help them age gracefully.
So I agree with what Mr Saktiandi said earlier, and we will expand this approach. I am very grateful to everyone who started this programme, because they started small, not knowing its potential, but we can see that it is able to generate interest as well as provide development opportunities for the seniors.
I also heard about this programme from my wife. She told me her friends enjoyed attending it, getting support from the community. I have also heard about the one at Masjid Darul Ghufran and attended it, where I could see its very positive impact. So we will work hard to take care of our seniors.
The Chairman : We have actually used up a lot of the time for clarification. If I may seek the indulgence of Members, because there are almost six other hands raised to ask questions, my suggestion is that we defer this because I am worried if we do not, the rest of the MCCY cuts and clarification may all be taken up.
We will sacrifice break for today as well. I will save 20 minutes. All these clarifications, let us push it to the back, at the end of the rest of the cuts. I would ask for Members and Minister for your indulgence on this. Mr Mark Lee.
National Confidence and Identity
Mr Mark Lee (Nominated Member) : Chairman, when we speak about social cohesion today, the deeper question is not just how well we get along, but how confident Singaporeans feel about who we are becoming.
Singapore is undergoing two shifts. Externally, the world is becoming more uncertain, contested and polarised. Internally, Singaporeans, especially younger Singaporeans, are thinking more actively about identity, voice, fairness and belonging. Together, these shifts mean that social cohesion today is no longer just about co-existence, but about whether people feel anchored in a shared sense of who we are.
In this context, I welcome MCCY's clear decision to position multiculturalism as an anchor of our Singapore identity. It recognises that Singapore has always been open and evolving, and that with a strong sense of self, we can remain open without insecurity.
But if multiculturalism is our anchor, then the key question is how Singaporeans experience and live that anchor in everyday terms.
What does it mean today to be a Singaporean Chinese, a Singaporean Malay, a Singaporean Indian, Eurasian – not as fixed categories from the past, but as identities shaped by shared experiences, common values and participation in modern Singapore? How do our arts, sports, heritage spaces and youth platforms help people internalise this rather than just leaving identity to be shaped implicitly by fragmented or external narratives?
This matters. When identity is under-articulated or not felt, it creates space for pessimism and quiet social distancing even if surface harmony remains.
As such, beyond delivering strong individual initiatives, how is the Ministry intentionally shaping a coherent narrative of what defines us as Singaporeans today, one that builds confidence in our multicultural identity and a shared sense of belonging, especially amongst younger Singaporeans? And how does the Ministry assess whether its work is strengthening this deep foundational long-term social cohesion?
The Chairman : Ms Valerie Lee. Sorry, Mr Alex Yam.
Making School Sports More Accessible
Mr Alex Yam : Chairman, beyond competition and medals, sports build resilience, teamwork, discipline and healthy habits for young people. However, many students today find it difficult to join school co-curricular activities (CCAs) unless they already demonstrate a certain level of aptitude.
Trials can be highly competitive and places are of course limited. As a result, some students who simply wish to try something new or participate recreationally find themselves excluded from school sports altogether. This risks narrowing participation to those who are already skilled when the developmental nature of sport lies precisely in allowing more young people to experience it.
Could MCCY share how it is working with MOE to broaden access to sports in schools so that participation serves not only competitive excellence but also serves youth development?
For example, are there plans to expand recreational tiers, modular programmes or learn-to-play pathways where students can pick up a sport without needing to pass a competitive trial? Such pathways could allow students to discover interest and develop confidence before deciding whether they wish to pursue a sport more seriously.
Sports also provide one of the most natural spaces for young Singaporeans of different abilities and backgrounds to interact. When students train and play together, they learn cooperation, perseverance and mutual respect. In building a "we first" society, such shared experiences matter.
School sports should remain both a pathway for excellence and a platform for broad participation.
I would therefore appreciate if the Minister could share how policy can better balance these objectives while ensuring that student well-being and academic balance are safeguarded.
Sports and Outdoors – Shaping Our Youths
Ms Valerie Lee (Pasir Ris-Changi) : Chairman, sports and outdoor education play a formative role in shaping the resilience, confidence and sense of belonging for our youths.
I have previously declared that I was in the national youth bowling team. But beyond that chapter, my journey in sports began simply playing basketball at the community centre with my father and at school during recess with friends. It progressed to competing in bowling, javelin and shot put in school and having my Alex Honnold moments on the rock climbing walls as a young adult when I started working.
What stayed with me was not achievement or the medals, but the lessons in discipline, teamwork and perseverance.
For many youths, sport provides a constructive third space where they build identity, friendships and resilience. Studies have also found that youths who participate regularly in sports report significantly higher life satisfaction and lower stress levels than their less active peers.
In this House, we often focus on the Olympics, major games and elite performance. These are important and we should continue supporting high-performance athletes. But if our focus is too narrow, we risk overlooking the broader base where many youths are meaningfully engaged.
My sense is that the number of athletes represented by National Sport Associations (NSAs) which do not qualify for the Olympics greatly outnumber those in the few sports we often highlight. Many sports, such as tchoukball, rollersports, dragonboat and others, are sustained by passionate communities, many of whom are youths. These platforms may not carry Olympic status, but they play an important developmental role.
I would like to ask how does the Ministry intend to support such sports that house and nurture large numbers of young people? Could we consider a modest seed fund to help smaller NSAs build capabilities? Could the Government play a bigger role in facilitating greater after-hours access to facilities such as schools as training grounds?
If we truly believe sport is for youth development, then breadth of opportunity must matter as much as podium outcomes.
If sports shape youths in familiar community spaces, outdoor education shapes them in unfamiliar terrain. I am a grateful beneficiary of the Outward Bound School (OBS), having attended the five-day OBS course in Secondary 3 and later returning for longer programmes on the Ubin Campus and the final one in the mountains of Korea. Those experiences challenged me physically and mentally and strengthened my appreciation for teamwork and nature – lessons I carried on into adulthood.
I am heartened that the Government is extending OBS to every Secondary 3 student. But as this expansion progresses, may I ask, what is the next milestone for OBS Singapore? As we strengthen local access, could we also consider extending more overseas OBS experiences in a calibrated way? Exposure to different terrains and cultures stretches youths in ways sometimes our domestic environments cannot.
While OBS remains a national cornerstone, continued support for other outdoor education providers, working with parties like the Outdoor Adventure Education Council, would strengthen the broader ecosystem and widen access for youths with different interests and needs.
[Deputy Speaker (Mr Christopher de Souza) in the Chair]
Chairman, sports shape resilience in our young people. Outdoor education builds rugged confidence and character. By broadening support for participation in diverse sports and deepening the next phase of outdoor education, we invest not just in programmes or facilities, but in Singapore's future.
Managing Shared Spaces and Sports Demand
Ms Gho Sze Kee (Mountbatten) : Mr Chairman, I am sure every Member of this House is aware of the issues arising from the increasing popularity of pickleball in our neighbourhoods. This growth comes with much friction.
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I received some very angry complaints from both players and residents right after I became a Member of Parliament. It is, let us face it, a noisy game.
Different wards dealt with it differently. Some restricted playing hours. Others banned it entirely. But the tensions are not limited to our Housing and Development Board (HDB) neighbourhoods too. I have had complaints about pickleball noise from the grounds of a private club.
For my ward, I have been pushing for what I call an 80% solution. I met a Mountbatten resident, Ms Pauline Tan, at a house visit and she happens to be a competitive pickleball player. She showed me a set of pickleballs made of foam. She is a very considerate neighbour and had started using them because they reduce noise levels considerably.
The difference at our neighbourhood courts were dramatic. We organised a pilot community event to roll these out more widely. We gave out free foam balls to many players and we organised a stealth mode silent pickle ball using these foam balls.
But it is only an 80% solution because it is, of course, impossible to please everyone. Some players resisted the foam balls because they felt different and were not competition ready. They were happy to take the free foam balls, they just will not use them. Which is ironic, because our neighbourhood courts are not competition-compliant either. Some residents, on the other hand, feel that this does not go far enough and would prefer pickleball to be banned entirely.
In political science, there is the concept of positive and negative rights. Our pickle over pickleball can be a classic case study of the tensions between both. The right to play clashing with the right to peace and quiet. Political scientists will tell you that this is a zero-sum game.
In a dense city like ours, neither right can be absolute. We must approach it from a framework of compromise and give-and-take. That is the only way to preserve harmony in our society. Participation in community sports is growing and demand for neighbourhood and precinct level facilities is rising. We should welcome this, but yet, as we have seen, it can also easily become a source of discord, instead of bonding in our communities.
So, this cannot be just about trying to meet the demand. It would be very easy to turn many under-utilised spaces in our neighbourhoods into more pickleball courts, or other sports courts for that matter. But the most convenient place may not be the best place, or even the right place. Would noise and human traffic be an issue? Would it disturb the residents in the neighbourhood? Can the noise be contained at the location chosen? We should learn the lessons and we can preamp much of these tensions.
The last thing that we want to do is to create more tensions and unhappiness in our communities. In this context, I would appreciate it if MCCY could provide an update on the roll-out of new sports facilities in our neighbourhoods and how are we planning ahead to meet this increasing demand at community level? Is MCCY addressing facilities demand in a way that anticipates and addresses such friction?
New Locations for Pickleball Courts
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim (Sengkang) : Pickleball has taken Singapore by storm. The sport now boasts at least 5,000 serious players and many more causal ones. It is likely to become even more popular. While many enjoy the physical and social benefits of play, complaints abound. Some grouse about limited availability of shared courts, while others object to the noise.
In response to the hundreds of noise complaints received, some Town Councils have chosen to restrict playing time or to ban play altogether. Yet as many have faced intense lobbying efforts for expanded hours. Competing interests make this MP feel knocked around much like a pickleball.
I propose that we allow the conversion of underutilised second-to-top floors of multi-storey car park into pickleball courts. There is generally sufficient space for the game and the ceiling will limit upward noise transmission. To further contain noise, retractable sound curtains can be easily installed along the parameter.
There is some precedence for conversion of existing infrastructure into pickleball courts. Indoor badminton courts at Community Clubs have pickleball lines drawn to permit dual use. And sections of the Little India bus terminal are to be retrofitted to accommodate eight pickleball courts.
One objection is that there is an opportunity cost to forgone income, since such lots may generate potential revenue. This has sometimes been the Ministry of National Development's (MND's) response to requests for converting carpark spaces to other uses, such as community gardens. But in many newer estates, including Sengkang, these lots are already underutilised, and almost always empty. The opportunity cost of forgone income is entirely imaginary. Moreover, even if guest parking needs are elevated in certain periods – such as during holidays, where visitations are more common – swing barricades can easily be installed and opened to allow access on such occasions.
Another objection to safety, is that safety might be compromised when carparks are used beyond their designated purpose. Indeed, when Sengkang Town Council proposed this idea to MND, the response begged the question: "The playing of pickleball and any other recreational activities are not an approved use of the HDB carpark currently as HDB multi-storey car parks were designed and built primarily for parking only."
But multi-storey car parks are already used for other functions. Temporary office space, such as HDB site offices, is sometimes located at the upper floors. There is also the Courier Hub Scheme that is applicable in select multi-storey car parks. In response to a Parliamentary Question I asked in 2021, then-MND Minister Desmond Lee stated that HDB is, in principle, open to alternative uses of multi-storey car parks for social communal facilities.
A third objection is that regulation pickleball courts often call for a five-metre height minimum. But there are multi-storey car parks, including those in Sengkang, that fulfill this requirement. And while the five-metre clearance is preferable for professional courts, causal players may well be content with less.
Hence, while not currently approved, there are good reasons why we can have pickleball courts in multi-storey car parks. Let us get this done, for the sake of players and non-players – and perhaps, long-suffering MPs.
Free Access to Strength Training for All
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre (Non-Constituency Member) : Chairman, to go for a run, all you need is a pair of shoes. You step outside and go. There is no membership, no queue, no need to travel to a gym. Strength training has no equivalent and I want to make the case today that it should. The science is clear. Strength training is not just for the muscle bound body builder, it is for everyone. Bone density peaks around age 30 and decline steadily thereafter.
Aerobic exercise slows the decline, but strength training has the potential to reverse it. Building bone, building muscle and reducing the risk of falls and fractures in ways that cardio alone cannot. The World Health Organization recommends two full body strength sessions per week for all adults. I think most Singaporeans are not meeting that target. I will speak personally. Before my daughter was born six months ago, I went to the gym two or three times a week.
Since she arrived, I have gone fewer than 10 times in total, not because I do not want to go, but because 15 minutes travelling there and then 15 minutes back, is 30 minutes that a young father cannot find. If there were a resistance station at my void deck, I would use it every other day, I am sure of this. I am not alone. The elderly resident maintaining muscle and bone density, the beginner who would not know where to start in a commercial gym, the time press parent. The barrier looks different for each, but it is the same barrier.
Active SG Gyms deserve credit. They are affordable, well distributed, well equipped, but they require a trip. You need to check if the capacity is full and often, at peak hours, you need to queue for equipment. And for many who have never set foot in a gym, the sign-up and the unfamiliar environment are barriers they never overcome.
Our fitness corners could bridge that gap. There are over 3,400 of them – free and accessible across our estates and parks. Many already include strength oriented equipment, but effective strength training requires progressive overload, the ability to increase resistance as you get stronger. The beginner starts at five kilogrammes and then moves up to 20, 30, 40 over time. Variable resistance machines make that possible, but our fitness corners today largely do not possess them.
Instead, they largely feature equipment that focuses on encouraging mobility and fixed resistance machines. In their current guide, they serve a limited demographic. We should increase their utility and therefore, I have three suggestions for the Ministry.
Firstly, lead by example, Sports SG already directly manages 10 sport in precinct facilities with more to come. You can upgrade these first, and for upcoming plan builds, incorporate variable resistance equipment from day one.
Two, we should work with NParks to incorporate variable resistance equipment into park fitness corners as they come up for renewal or upgrading. And lastly, for HDB fitness corners under town council management, we should develop a national framework with pre-qualified standards, recommended suppliers and co-funding pathways through Sports SG, so Town Councils can upgrade without running full procurement exercises.
Chairman, aerobic fitness is inherently accessible. Let us make strength training so too.
Consolidation of NYSI, SSI and SSP
Mr Alex Yam : Chairman, at last year's COS, the Ministry announced an important restructuring of our high-performance sports ecosystem. This included the consolidation of the National Youth Sports Institute and the Singapore Sports Institute and the Singapore Sports School into the High Performance Sports Institute (HPSI).
The Ministry also alluded to the eventual consolidation of the HPSI and the Singapore Sports School. This is a significant structural shift. For many years, Singapore's sports landscape has involved multiple institutions working across different stages of the athlete's journey, from youth identification to elite performance.
The intent behind this consolidation is therefore an important one: to create a more integrated system that supports athletes more effectively throughout their development. Could the Minister provide an update on the progress of this consolidation? In particular, how will the new structure strengthen athlete development pathways, ensure smoother transitions from youth potential to elite performance? How will the system better coordinate coaching, sports science and athlete management so that promising young athletes receive consistent support as they progress?
At the same time, I seek to ask how the Ministry will ensure that sporting excellence is balanced with education and well-being, because many of our young athletes must juggle training commitments with academic responsibilities?
Finally, from the perspective of athletes, coaches and parents, what improvements have been observed so far? How will MCCY and SportSG ensure that this integration reduces fragmentation across agencies and ultimately leads to stronger long-term outcomes for Team Singapore? I would therefore appreciate the Minister's update on how this new structure is taking shape.
Strengthening Support for National Sports Associations
Mr Jackson Lam (Nee Soon) : Mr Chairman, I declare my interest as a Vice-President of an NSA. Sports play an important role in national identity, community health and youth development. Singapore has enjoyed notable successes on the international stage and grassroots sport participation has grown.
But if we look more closely at the institutional backbone of our sporting ecosystem, the NSAs, there are structural pressures that deserve attention.
Recent public reporting has shown that private sponsorship for sports remain limited. In 2023, sports donations amounted to about S$13 million, representing less than 1% of the total charitable donations in Singapore. Many NSAs and athletes have acknowledged the difficulty of securing sustained corporate backing. This means that associations remain heavily reliant on Government subventions and short-term grants.
Whilst NSAs are mainly run by volunteers, MCCY shared in Parliament that Sport Singapore and the Singapore National Olympic Council are working to strengthen their governance and operational capabilities. This is an important recognition. But it also underscores the reality that many associations operate with lean secretariats and limited professional depth.
Furthermore, SportSG funding is tied to governance and strategic planning requirements. Currently, funding is provided to 45 out of 63 eligible NSAs, subject to meeting capability criteria. While this promotes accountability, it also means that associations with weaker institution capacity may struggle to secure stable, multi-year support, reinforcing a cycle of fragility.
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Against this backdrop, feedback from athletes and NSA leaders continues to highlight structural constraints: difficulty retaining coaching talent due to funding uncertainty; challenges in building robust athlete development pathways beyond the elite tier; limited resources for sports science; injury prevention and sustained grassroots outreach.
If we expect NSAs to widen participation, strengthen safeguarding standards, develop youth pipelines and support high-performance ambitions, episodic programme-based grants may not be sufficient.
I therefore ask the Minister, has MCCY conducted a recent capacity assessment of NSAs to understand where structural gaps, not just financial shortfalls, are impeding long-term development? Beyond periodic funding grants, will MCCY explore multi-year core funding frameworks or partnership models that build organisational stability for NSAs?
As Singapore faces an ageing population and persistent physical inactivity challenges, what additional structural support will be provided to NSAs to expand community engagement and broaden participation safely and sustainably?
If sport is to remain a pillar of national well-being and identity, then our NSAs must be equipped not only with passion, but with stability, professionalism and long-term resilience.
Sustaining Arts and Sport Ecosystems
Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh (Nominated Member) : Thank you, Chair. In this changed, turbulent world, we must invest just as deliberately in the arts, sport and the cultural ecosystems because these are the human and societal foundations that shape who we are as Singaporeans.
In an AI-led world, creative work, sport and cultures will not disappear. They will become even more valuable as distinctly human pursuits.
Allow me to make four points in my cut.
First, on the sustainability of our arts and sports practitioners. In both sectors, talent alone is not enough for excellence. Practitioners must be financially secure. Many artists and athletes face income uncertainty. Career spans can be short, income streams uneven, with the burden of support often falling on their families.
In the arts, many operate as freelancers or pursue portfolio careers. But to sustain their work at a high level, practitioners must be equipped as professionals able to protect and sustain their work.
For self-employed artists, could MCCY consider strengthening advisory and support platforms to better equip them in navigating contract negotiations and protecting their intellectual property (IP) and rights, areas where freelancers can otherwise be vulnerable?
For our athletes, given the finite duration of sporting careers, MCCY has already put in place important schemes such as Sports Excellence Business (spexBusiness) and spexEducation to support dual-career pathways. But could the Ministry consider further strengthening these efforts with more structured support for career transitions? This could include providing modules in areas such as sponsorship management, personal brand development and entrepreneurship so that our national athletes are better equipped to support themselves beyond their competitive years.
Financial viability also matters in heritage cultural enterprises. As long-standing businesses close, could MCCY consider establishing a targeted succession support initiative, providing advisory support, mentorship and transition planning to help heritage cultural enterprises pass sustainably to the next generation?
Sir, we have spoken a lot of cost of living in this Chamber during this debate. Let us ensure that rising cost of living does not hinder Singaporeans from pursuing their talents in these domains.
Second, on the participation in the arts and sports. A vibrant arts and sporting culture also depends on broad participation. A broad base helps to strengthen the talent pipeline. I am encouraged by arts programmes in community spaces and the showcasing of our national athletes in our neighbourhoods. These initiatives embed culture and sport in everyday life.
The SG Culture Pass was introduced in Budget 2025 to encourage greater participation in the arts. I would welcome updates by the Ministry on utilisation – whether it is reaching new audiences and increasing regular engagement.
Similarly, could the Ministry consider piloting a participation-based mechanism such as an SG Sport Pass, where funding is directed specifically towards programmes delivered by accredited coaches? Not only will this broaden access to structured sports participation, it will also incentivise coach certification and upscaling and strengthen the likelihood of our coaches, many of whom operate as small businesses and enterprises.
My third point is on enhancing ecosystem financing. In 2024, sports and the arts received just 3.9% of total charitable giving, suggesting that there is considerable room to crowd in sustained private support, a point that Member Jackson Lam also highlighted.
I welcome the extension of the 250% tax deduction for qualifying donations to Institutions of a Public Character (IPCs) until December 2029, announced in the Prime Minister's Budget. But we can do more to crowd in and catalyse sustained giving in the arts and sports by corporations and private donors.
To do so, can the Government consider extending enhanced tax deductions of up to 400% tied to long-term support for these sectors, given their importance to national resilience and unity? A structure that supports multi-year giving pledges with higher deductions will provide planning certainty for arts groups and our sporting organisations.
If we are prepared to incentivise investments in technological capability because it strengthens economic competitiveness, we should also be deliberate in incentivising cultural investments that strengthen cohesion.
My fourth point is on projecting our national identity. The arts and sport do more than bring us together at home. They also project who we are in the world.
Just as our athletes proudly fly the Singapore flat at major international games, could MCCY consider developing a strategy for high-potential arts and cultural groups to perform on the world's most prominent stages and international festivals?
When our artists and creators showcase their work on these international platforms, it helps to project confidence in who we are as a nation. If we are proud and confident of our identity, we should also present that identity to the world with equal confidence.
Chairman, as we build a future-ready economy, we must also build a future-ready society, one that can help us thrive in these uncertain times. A resilient society invests in its cohesion. The returns may not always appear in economic numbers, but they will be reflected in our pride that we share as a nation.
Oxley - National Monument
Ms Joan Pereira (Tanjong Pagar) : Last December, the former home of our founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew at 38 Oxley Road was gazetted as a National Monument. This January, the Government commenced the process to acquire the site.
As the Government now moves forward to develop the site into a public space, it is important that the process takes into account national heritage needs, exercises sensitivity and respect for the dignity of the site, and also to take into account the concerns and needs of neighbouring residents at every stage of the planning process. After all, for neighbours, they will be the most greatly impacted by this development.
The historic significance of 38 Oxley Road is beyond dispute. The Preservation of Sites and Monuments Advisory Board assessed the site to be of strong national significance, having borne witness to pivotal events in the 1950s that marked our country's transition from colonial rule to independence. It was here that our founding leaders held the consequential discussions that led to our governance.
On the other hand, let us be mindful that 38 Oxley Road does not exist in isolation. It sits within a quiet, established residential enclave. The daily lives of residents in the vicinity will be directly affected by the transformation of 38 Oxley Road from a private residence into a public heritage space.
Since the Government announced its intention to gazette the site, residents have come forward to share their concerns with me.
First, traffic congestion. Oxley Road is a narrow two-lane road that already carries heavy vehicular traffic as a thoroughfare between Orchard Road and River Valley Road. Multiple residents have expressed worry that the conversion of the site into a public space could bring significantly more vehicles, tour buses and pedestrians into an area that, as one resident put it, "isn't built for that purpose".
Second, illegal parking. Residents have highlighted the longstanding problem of non-residents using their private car parks, given the absence of gantries or security at their entrances. If the site attracts large numbers of visitors, where will they park?
Third, the impact of human traffic – noise, crowds and the disruption to the tranquil character of the estate. Residents recalled the surge of visitors in 2017 during the public dispute over the site's future and fear a repeat on a far larger and more permanent scale. They understand and can agree that it is important for visitors, including our future generations, to visit and understand the significance of this site, but they also worry that the place will lose its sense of dignity.
These are not abstract concerns. They are practical everyday realities and they deserve to be treated with the seriousness they merit.
Addressing these concerns requires a whole-of-Government approach. MCCY, as the lead Ministry responsible for the preservation and development of the site, will need to plan and coordinate with the relevant Ministries and agencies very carefully.
The Ministry of Transport must be engaged on traffic management, parking solutions and public transport access. Proposals such as designating alternative access points, creating drop-off zones for tour coaches and improving pedestrian infrastructure along Oxley Road should be seriously studied.
The Ministry of National Development must address building and estate maintenance issues. The surrounding properties are ageing. Residents have expressed hope that the gazetting will bring upgrades to the surrounding estate, including improvements to walkways and infrastructure. There is also the question of whether planning controls and height restrictions in the area may be adjusted, which will affect residents' property rights and interests.
The Ministry of Trade and Industry must work to minimise disamenities caused by tourism. If the site were to be developed into a heritage park, there must be careful management of visitor flows, operating hours and commercial activity to ensure that the residential character of the neighbourhood is preserved. Property consultants have noted that planners will need to facilitate adequate car and coach parking and drop-off zones.
The most important point I wish to make is this – residents must not be informed of decisions only after they are made. They must be involved in shaping those decisions from the very beginning. The Government should establish structured, regular consultation channels with the residents of the immediate vicinity. These should not be just one-off feedback sessions, but an ongoing dialogue throughout the planning, design, construction and operational phases of the development.
The preservation of 38 Oxley Road as a national monument is a significant step in safeguarding Singapore's founding history for future generations. But a monument that is developed in a neighbourhood, without mitigation measures, risks becoming a source of division rather than unity.
Let us build this heritage space the Singapore way – through careful planning, inter-agency coordination and, most importantly, through genuine partnership with the residents whose lives will be most directly affected.
Revitalisation of Our Heritage
Mr Foo Cexiang (Tanjong Pagar) : Chairman, Tanjong Pagar-Tiong Bahru is a place where many of Singapore's stories began. Our very first Community Centre in Tiong Bahru, one of our first Residents' Committees in Tanjong Pagar Plaza, our beloved Tiong Bahru Market set amidst a beautiful pre-war public housing estate and, over at Tanjong Pagar, shophouses filled with clan associations juxtaposed against one of our very first mixed-use public housing developments, Tanjong Pagar Plaza, juxtaposed against the towering 55-floor The Pinnacle ＠ Duxton – until it is overtaken by the 60-floor Pearl's Hill Build-To-Order (BTO) coming up soon.
Chairman, these are not just built infrastructure. They contain stories of our residents who have stayed here for many decades and they are living repositories of memory, culture and identity. However, heritage by itself does not sustain itself. If it is to be meaningful, it needs to be refreshed and shared with each new generation.
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Today, our neighbourhood is home to many new families, young residents and international communities who may not know the stories of the earlier generation staying here. And it has been my mission to refresh our legacies and connect our generations in Tanjong Pagar-Tiong Bahru.
I would like to seek the Government's support to support more community-led initiatives that bring seniors, youths and new residents together to rediscover these stories through heritage trails, inter-generational storytelling programmes, as well as collaborations with schools and civic institutions. Where heritage is lived and shared, it will become a bridge between the past and the present and the future generations – and together, we will achieve my vision for Tanjong Pagar, Tiong Bahru, to be a living community where every generation finds its place in the Singapore story.
The Chairman : Ms Elysa Chen. Kindly deliver your two cuts together.
Supporting Ground-up Initiatives Together
Ms Elysa Chen (Bishan-Toa Payoh) : Sir, in today's volatile world, Singapore cannot afford a generation retreating from mutual help. At home, our super-ageing population, complex social needs and weakening social ties strain both the social and health sectors.
In my Budget speech, I spoke about community networks protecting against isolation. In Bishan, mothers gather at playgrounds, taking turns to host playdates and support one another. At Bishan Community Club, a group of young widows called HopeHerd ensures no widow journeys alone. Like elephants, they form a herd so mothers and children can grieve and heal together.
Young people are stepping up too. The Rotaract Club of Raffles City runs community projects and has launched cross-border collaborations with their twin club in Kuala Lumpur, including the inaugural Rotaract ASEAN Young Leaders' Exchange.
These ground-up efforts show that our communities already possess deep social capital. When trusted and supported, residents take ownership, supporting families, combating isolation, strengthening mental well-being. What would supercharge them is sustained, low-barrier funding.
Will the Government, through the $50-million SG Partnerships Fund, ringfence support and simplify access for youth and parent-led ground-up initiatives? Will the Government consider expanding the fund to $100 million, given the demand in rental and vulnerable communities?
Time Banking for Thriving Communities
Sir, in my Budget speech, I spoke about combating social isolation. One way to build lasting mutual aid is time-banking – volunteers can earn credits for helping others, redeemable when they need help themselves.
This idea is proven elsewhere. Japan's Fureai Kippu lets volunteers earn credits caring for the elderly. Switzerland's St Gallen Zeitvorsorge, backed by their Federal Social Insurance Office, records volunteer hours in social security accounts for future use. Both have sustained community caregiving for decades.
Singapore's rapidly ageing society needs similar infrastructure. We can co-design this with the community. The Government Partnerships Office under MCCY can pilot small-scale time-bank or community currency experiments for different purposes before deciding how to scale nation-wide.
Time-banking gives dignity because no one is a passive beneficiary; everyone contributes. Skills like listening, visiting and mentoring, often unpaid and performed by women, are valued. It also reinforces interdependence: helping a neighbour today means someone will help you tomorrow.
Time-banking is also democratising. As I shared in my Budget speech, Ain, a mother, volunteers in our community. One hour of her time visiting a hospitalised neighbour is as valuable as one hour of a lawyer volunteering at a legal clinic.
Will the Ministry pilot time-banking, allowing Singaporeans to exchange skills and support through time credits? Could this be hosted on existing digital infrastructure like Giving.sg? If not, is the Government exploring alternative ways to strengthen neighbourliness and mutual aid?
The Chairman : Assoc Prof Terence Ho. Kindly deliver your two cuts together.
Culture Pass
Assoc Prof Terence Ho (Nominated Member) : Mr Chairman, in the age of AI, the arts and culture will be more important than ever. I am very glad that the SG Culture Pass, an idea raised by former Nominated Member of Parliament Terence Ho, has been launched. I hope that the arts will be seen as a staple of life in Singapore, alongside sports. In this regard, I would like to ask the Ministry if it plans to make periodic top-ups to both ActiveSG credits as well as the Culture Pass so Singaporeans can stay fit and healthy in body and spirit.
The Culture Pass covers a range of activities spanning heritage, visual arts, theatre, music, dance, film and now, Singapore literature. It would be wonderful if the Culture Pass could encourage Singaporeans to try something different from what they are accustomed to. For example, could it persuade a heritage buff to step into the theatre for the first time?
Assuming there will be regular top-ups of the Culture Pass, I would like to suggest offering first-timer discounts or bonus credits when a person spends Culture Pass credits in a new category that he or she has not previously used the credits for. A discount arrangement could be worked out with participating arts and heritage organisations.
Supporting Local Bookstores
Sir, I would like to declare my interest as a published book author. In the second cycle of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development's Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies conducted in 2022-2023, Singapore climbed to 18th out of 31 countries in literacy proficiency. However, the study also found a significant decline in literacy after the age of 35. Age-related proficiency loss also occurred in other countries but was particularly pronounced in Singapore.
This is a concern as literacy reflects the ability to handle and process new information. In the interest of promoting literacy, among other things, I would like to suggest that more be done to strengthen the literary infrastructure and ecosystem in Singapore by providing greater support to local publishers and bookstores.
I remember the days when bookstores could be found all across Singapore – from second-hand bookstores in Far East Plaza to the MPH flagship store along Stamford Road.
While the book publishing and distribution business model has changed with the times, and we cannot expect a similar density of bookstores as in the past, there is still something special about bookstores that is worth preserving. They are places to discover new authors, often serendipitously, browse the latest titles, and access the ideas that are trending across the world. In this sense, bookstores could be considered a public good that encourages reading and contributes to the publishing ecosystem, complementing our public libraries.
Independent bookstores are particularly important in giving visibility to local writers and serving as natural gatherings places for fans of local literature. They could be supported with grants to host book clubs and talks or to support the design and development of conducive spaces to host such events. Perhaps commercial developers could even be granted additional gross floor area if they lease premises to bookstores that fulfil certain community objectives.
Sustainability of the Arts
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan (Non-Constituency Member) : Sir, I speak today as a Singaporean who is an avid theatre goer. By the numbers, our arts ecosystem appears supported and healthy. The public sector outcomes review reports rising heritage awareness, stable graduate employment in the arts, and growing attendance at festivals and community programmes. The cultural matching fund has dispersed over $400 million since 2014. Last year, every Singaporean over 18 received $100 in SG Culture Pass credits.
And if, our arts ecosystem is so well supported, why does it remain so fragile? The Substation had already closed its doors back in 2021. Last year the Projector closed. Last month, Pangdemonium announced its final season after 16 years. Each closure had its own reasons, but when established companies with a track record and loyal audiences cannot sustain themselves or choose to stop as the conditions have become too demanding, then it is not just a series of individual decisions.
Perhaps it is a reflection of an ecosystem that remains stretched, and the numbers bear this out: 90% of our arts ecosystem comprises small organisations; one in two arts and culture practitioners is self-employed and any work project to project. While the more accessible grants administered by the National Arts Council (NAC) cover between 50% and 70% of project costs, this also means that every production begins in deficit and need to fundraise the remainder cost. Yet, donation to the arts make up less than 2% of total charitable giving in Singapore.
On the demand side, there is a paradox. The 2023 population survey on the arts showed that while three quarters of Singaporeans agree that the arts benefit our community, only three in 10 consume local arts content. This same survey also points us towards answers. It found that Singaporeans with childhood exposure to the arts were significantly more likely to value, attend and advocate for the arts as adults. Students and youths already have among the highest physical attendance rates for performances. The data tell us both where the gap is and where the opportunity lies.
Sir, I have two suggestions. First, introduce micro grants for small scale community-facing arts projects. They should come with simplified administration criteria and should not be packed to a percentage of an overall budget. For small projects, such micro grants could be the difference between a project happening or it not happening at all. Second, make the arts more affordable and accessible for our youths. They are already the most willing attendees. Let us meet their enthusiasm with sustained, expand, expanded and subsidised access. This could mean expanded subsidised student pricing, extending the SG Culture Pass to students aged 13 to 18, or even exploring co-payments for tickets using funds from their Edusave account.
If we believe that the arts build character, empathy and understanding, then we should treat access to them with the same seriousness we treat access to education and enrichment.
Empowering Self-employed Artists
Ms Gho Sze Kee : Sir, first, I declare my interests as a practising lawyer. Many of our arts practitioners are self-employed. They work project to project, commission to commission. While that gives them independence, it also means they are often disadvantaged when it comes to negotiating fees, contracts, or usage rights. Too often, they end up being price takers rather than price makers and take the short stick.
MCCY has done a lot over the years to support our arts practitioners in funding, talent development, outreach and capability building. That has helped grow the sector and strengthen our arts ecosystem. But there is one area that seems to have been left a little behind: legal support.
When you are self-employed, understanding contracts, intellectual property rights, and negotiating commercial terms is not just useful, but essential. However, without guidance and support, talented artists can find themselves underselling their work or signing away rights they should not. Many are particularly disadvantaged when dealing with large commercial organisations.
Professional help exists but, as I have noted in this House before, lawyers can be expensive. This affects not just their earnings, but also the sustainability of their careers in the arts.
So, I want to ask, would MCCY consider looking at ways to help self-employed arts practitioners navigate the legal aspects of commercialising their art? This could be through legal literacy programmes, templates for contracts, or access to affordable legal advisory services. Assisting them with commercial or legal negotiations would also be of great help for our arts practitioners.
Supporting them in this way frees them up to concentrate on their art and strengthen their careers. At the end of the day, talent alone is not enough. Artists need to be empowered to protect their work and negotiate on their own terms so that our arts ecosystem can continue to thrive.
The Future is Big-hearted and Young
Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim : Chairman, I declare interest as the chief executive officer of EtonHouse Community Fund (ECF), an IPC charity focused on nurturing the potential of children and youths, as well as Director on the Board of Singapore Business Federation Foundation.
I will touch on: nurturing confident youths, active citizenry and ground-up initiatives, as well as making businesses do better.
It is unenviable how young Singaporeans today live lives. There is more of everything and yet many feel and wonder if there are ever enough.
Singapore's young must believe they have a place and a future here in Singapore. Last year, MCCY engaged youths all across Singapore to develop an SG Youth Action Plan. I am hopeful for this plan to level the playing field so that opportunities are open to every young person, not just a few.
We should also ensure that the SG Youth Action Plan is accessible by design so that youths with special needs or from minority communities are not excluded from leadership development, community engagement and civic participation. I look forward to an update on the SG Youth Action Plan, especially intentional efforts to nurture confidence.
I hope MCCY expands partnerships on these efforts and collaborate with partners, particularly for mentoring and work-experience efforts, so that youths get access to mentors, internships and real-world opportunities. In East Coast Group Representation Constituency (GRC), we have the youth internship programme; and I think some of the students are joining us here in the House today.
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When young people can see the path towards meaningful roles and future opportunities, it builds confidence and hope. Our young have some of the biggest hearts. When I was lecturing at Temasek Polytechnic over a decade ago, I led several local and international service trips. My students were more than arms and legs. They were the heart and soul of those missions. Some volunteer with me till today.
I welcome the new $50 million SG Partnerships Fund, which I hope encourages more Singaporeans to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. I look forward to more details, including priority areas and support offered for Singaporeans who are keen to apply.
Being in the impact space for close to 15 years, Chairman, I see first-hand how many charities and community organisations are doing important work and how more help is often needed. Time, talent, treasure is the currency of the sector. I welcome the move to extend 250% tax deductions for qualifying donations as well as the Corporate Volunteer Scheme, when employees volunteer or are seconded to IPCs until 2029.
This is helpful as the enhanced fundraising programme is tapering to pre-pandemic levels and several charity friends have shared their concerns with me.
Acting Minister, what is MCCY's plans in working with other agencies or Ministries to engage and galvanise corporate involvement and enhance support for corporate giving as well as volunteerism to encourage businesses to care beyond their bottom lines?
Chairman, in conclusion, let us draw inspiration from our young, their big hearts and strong sense of social justice. There is one Malay saying that goes, "Pemuda harapan bangsa, pemudi tiang negara", which means the youths are the hope of the nation and pillars of society. And that belief, Chairman, is what will carry us to the future.
Strengthening Singapore Co-operatives
Mr Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari (Nominated Member) : Mr Chairman, I would like to declare my interest as my union operates a credit co-operative and I am a member of the Singapore National Co-operative Executive Council.
Co-operatives are formed because Singaporeans believe strongly in the principles of self-help and mutual assistance. This spirit of fellowship brings them together to provide services that uplift their members and support communities at large.
During Singapore's formative years, the co-operative movement attracted individuals who drove initiatives that include consumer co-operatives which provide affordable essentials, and thrift and loan co-operatives that offer accessible financial services. Consequently, they became key pillars in providing affordable, quality and accessible goods and services to workers and vulnerable communities.
This intent remains the same today. A case in point was the 22 new projects initiated by co-operatives in 2025. Together with the Empowering Communities Fund, the co-operatives rallied over $1.2 million dollars and volunteers to support projects that address needs ranging from seniors, active ageing, caregivers and families to individuals facing social, emotional and financial challenges. These demonstrated their continued commitment to invest alongside public support in serving communities.
With rising competition from more private entities, including global brand names, co-operatives in Singapore are experiencing challenges in attracting youth involvement, talent attraction and retention to continue their mission.
Separately, there is also the broader question of how to encourage the formation of new co-operatives to meet emerging community needs. The recently developed Singapore Cooperative Movement 10-Year Transformation Roadmap is a good start in setting the direction.
As we look ahead, can the Ministry share, how will it support co-operatives in community engagement, youth involvement and ease of formation of new co-operatives so that more Singaporeans can adopt the co-operative model to address community needs? What will be done to encourage co-operatives to scale up and remain sustainable?
Can the Ministry consider reviewing aspects of the Co-operative Societies Act to allow for greater flexibility in their operations, including allowing enterprises to form co-operatives, different from the current rule whereby only individuals and unions can form co-operatives?
Further, can the Ministry support co-operatives by reviewing the current Central Co-operative Fund contribution rate to ensure it is comparable with the current corporate tax rate? That way, co-operatives can channel the savings to support more members and the community.
Mr Chairman, in a world of rapid change, cooperatives are built on trust, powered by likeminded people, reminding us that success is not measured by profits alone but by how many lives are uplifted and how many futures secured and progress shared.
Outward Bound School for All
Mr Darryl David (Ang Mo Kio) : Chairman, OBS was established in 1967 by Dr Goh Keng Swee to cultivate ruggedness, resilience, leadership and character through outdoor experiential learning. It formed part of early nation-building efforts to prepare young Singaporeans for life's uncertainties. From its beginnings on Pulau Ubin, OBS has grown into a key national institution delivering character and leadership programmes for youths.
In recent years, OBS has expanded its reach and upgraded its facilities. Under the National Outdoor Adventure Education Masterplan, a new OBS@Coney campus was developed and when fully operational, it is expected to significantly increase OBS' annual capacity, reinforcing the Government's commitment to outdoor education as part of holistic development.
Today, the OBS experience is most closely associated with youths for many young people. It is a formative rite of passage that fosters resilience and social cohesion.
Sir, given OBS' transformative impact, can we not extend its experiential learning model to Singaporeans who did not have the opportunity in their youth? By building on existing partnerships, could OBS collaborate with grassroots networks, for example, to design adapted programmes for even older adults and community groups?
With appropriate adjustments, I believe that OBS' ethos of resilience and teamwork can be translated into accessible inter-generational experiences that foster connections across age, ethnic and social groups.
Such partnerships could help bridge generational divides, encouraging lifelong learning and creating shared experiences that deepen community bonds. Exploring these possibilities would broaden OBS' role beyond youth development, strengthening our social fabric and reinforcing a shared Singaporean identity.
Placemaking for Thriving Third Spaces
Ms Elysa Chen : Sir, in my Budget speech, I proposed third spaces in our heartlands where young people can socialise and access mental health support. Let me share why this matters.
In Ireland, Jigsaw operates youth mental health cafes – low-stigma drop-in spaces that have significantly reduced barriers to help-seeking. In Australia, Headspace combines informal hangout areas with on-site mental health, work and study support. These models work because they meet young people where they are, without requiring them to formally seek help.
In Singapore, traditional spaces like void decks have "No Football" signs put up and malls require spending, which may discourage youths from utilising them as third spaces. About one in three youths report severe mental health symptoms. Yet 84% of mental health illnesses go undiagnosed. We need intermediate spaces in our heartlands, not clinical settings, but places where young people can play, socialise and access support early before conditions escalate.
Will the Government pilot third space hubs in our heartlands, co-locating informal hangout areas with access to mental health, mentoring and work-study support? Will MCCY develop a national plan to repurpose void decks and community spaces into free, youth-friendly spaces that facilitate social connection?
Space to be Young in Singapore
Ms Eileen Chong Pei Shan : Sir, I would like to talk about physical space and a challenge which many young Singaporeans live with – loneliness.
A 2024 IPS poll found that Singaporeans aged 21 to 34 face the highest levels of loneliness and social isolation of any age group. This is not a uniquely Singaporean challenge. Last year, the World Health Organization's Commission on Social Connection described loneliness as a pressing global health threat. But in Singapore, this is a serious and growing challenge that interacts with something very specific to us – our relationship with space.
Singapore is a land-scare country where every square metre must justify its economic value. We are not short of communal spaces. We have parks, Community Centres and integrated hubs, like One Tampines Hub. But space alone does not guarantee connection. There is a difference between programmed spaces and unstructured open spaces. Many of our communal facilities are curated with specific demographics and aims in mind. They function well as spaces of organised activity but less well as spaces of spontaneous encounter.
The void deck understood this intuitively. It was the default third space for an entire generation of Singaporeans, including mine. There, community happened without anyone having to organise or pay for it. But the ground-level openness that made the void deck a place you passed through and stayed in has given way to something more structured, purposeful and less porous. Newer HDB estates have moved towards designs where communal spaces sit between floors or on top of buildings, spaces that require intentional visits rather than chance encounters.
I invite the House to consider what is the default third space for young Singaporeans today. Where can they show up without a booking, a programme or a minimum spend? And have the kind of organic encounters that build friendships, spark passion projects and forge civic bonds? Young Singaporeans are already trying to answer this themselves. We see it in ground-up initiatives, like FriendZone and the Casual Poet Library. These are signs of unmet need for spaces that are free and open to all, where people can just be.
Mr Chairman, we cannot build a "we first" society through youth panels and volunteerism drives alone. We need physical space for togetherness – spaces where "we" can actually form. So, I hope MCCY can work together with MND and young Singaporeans to co-design a new generation of open, accessible, unstructured community spaces in our heartlands. Spaces that treat the need to gather and belong, not as a luxury, but as essential social infrastructure.
National Identity and Youth Participation
Prof Kenneth Poon (Nominated Member) : Mr Chairman, I welcome the Ministry's continued investments in youth engagement platforms, traineeships and pathways into employment. Coupled with the strong academic attainment of our youths as evidenced in our performance on international benchmarks, these initiatives will undoubtedly help prepare our young people for economic participation amid the demands of an increasingly competitive global environment.
I would like to propose today that preparing our youths for the future must also include preparing them to develop a shared sense of national identity. This is particularly important in a digital age where their values, aspirations and sense of belonging are shaped by global influences.
National surveys, such as the Health Promotion Board's Students' Health Survey and the National Youth Council's National Youth Survey, have highlighted concerns related to stress, mental well-being and life pressures among young people. Complementing these findings, national mental health studies indicate that a significant proportion of youth report symptoms of anxiety, depression or psychological distress.
Studies, such as the 2020 UNICEF Digital Lives of Children in ASEAN and the Infocomm Media Development Authority's Digital Society Survey, highlight that young people today are highly connected digitally and increasingly exposed to a wide range of information, perspectives and social influences through online environments.
More than a century ago, sociologist Émile Durkheim observed that when the social groups individuals belong to weaken, people become increasingly reliant on themselves alone. His insight remains relevant today, as young people navigate identity formation in a rapidly changing social and digital environment. We understand from research that adolescents who report a stronger sense of belonging to their national or community context may demonstrate higher levels of well-being, social trust and resilience during key life transitions.
Conversely, where opportunities for participation in shared institutions or community life are limited, young people may report greater uncertainty in identity formation, which may, in turn, be associated with lower perceived well-being. Opportunities to participate in civic or community settings then may serve not only social purposes but also contribute to psychosocial outcomes that support long-term well-being.
Identity formation does not arise solely from instruction or programme participation, but through opportunities for shared responsibility, meaningful participation and voice.
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Sir, during the Budget debate, I introduced four questions as a lens for considering how initiatives can strengthen Singapore's social foundations. One of them pertain to the extent to which our citizens have a meaningful voice in shaping how they are supported. In relating them to our youths, I would like to ask the Minister if the Government can share how opportunities for youth participation in community or civic initiatives are being structured to support the development of belonging and shared responsibility and how such opportunities may contribute to young people's sense of connection, contribution and participation in a shared national community. I look forward to the Minister's response on this matter.
Designing Belonging for Every Youth
Dr Charlene Chen (Tampines) : Recent surveys show that young Singaporeans experience more loneliness than older age groups. Many say they feel more anxious speaking face-to-face than online.
Loneliness is not just the mood. It shapes identity. If a young person repeatedly feels unseen or peripheral, that experience becomes part of how they see themselves and their place in society. So, the question before us is not only how to run more programmes. It is this: are we designing everyday Singapore in a way that makes connection easy or effortful?
I suggest we focus on two levers: spaces and programming.
A young man once told me that when he felt overwhelmed, he would go to the skate park in Tampines. He did not go there for a structured activity. He went because it was where he felt understood. That detail matters.
When mirrored panels at Bayfront MRT were frosted, dancers felt displaced. That linkway had quietly become a rehearsal space, a place where they practised, formed friendships and improved together. The provision of mirrored space at Marina South Pier MRT acknowledged that informal spaces matter.
These examples show something important. Young people do not only need facilities. They need places where they feel ownership.
Youths tell me that they compete for library seats or spend money at cafes just to have somewhere to study together. Community Clubs exist, but booking systems can feel formal, adult-controlled or difficult for spontaneous use. If our spaces feel distant or procedural, young people simply retreat to their rooms and to their screens.
So, imagine this instead. A secondary school student finishes classes. She books a small multi-use room in her neighbourhood Community Club with two taps on an app. It is available because certain off-peak hours are designated youth-access blocks. She and her friends rehearse a dance routine. Next door, a group of students are revising together. An uncle from the neighbourhood drops by to conduct a small mentoring session, matched through a community platform.
These are small design changes. But from a youth's perspective, the difference is large. Connection becomes convenient. Participation becomes routine. Belonging becomes local.
So, I ask whether MCCY could review under-utilised rooms for youth-designated time blocks. Pilot simplified, youth-friendly booking systems. Incorporate small acoustically treated multi-use rooms in future precinct upgrades. This is not about building new complexes. It is about existing infrastructure being more youth intentional.
The second is programming. We have grants, youth organisations and platforms. But initiative often remains fragmented.
A secondary school student recently wrote to me, asking if she could put posters to match volunteer music teachers with learners who lacked access. Her instinct was right: connection happens when people teach, learn and serve together. But why should she have to rely on void deck posters?
Imagine instead: a neighbourhood-based matching feature within existing community apps. A polytechnic student who plays the violin indicates she can volunteer for two hours a week. A Primary 5 student who cannot afford lessons signs up. The match is facilitated through the Community Club. Basic safeguards are in place. They meet weekly. They are no longer just volunteer and learner. They become part of the same community. Belonging deepens not through consumption but contribution.
So, I ask whether existing MCCY or PA's platforms can incorporate hyperlocal volunteer-learner matching for sports, arts and mentoring, grant prioritisation for recurring, sustained youth-led initiatives, not only one-off events.
Chairman, belonging cannot be siloed by age. We need integration. And when generations interact regularly, identity becomes shared, not fragmented. I also hope that MCCY can consider how we can nurture cross-generational mangling as well.
Chairman, if loneliness is rising, the response is not only more services. It is better design, design spaces that are easy to access, design systems that match initiative with opportunity, design programmes that reward continuity.
From a youth's perspective, the difference is simple. Instead of asking, "Where can I go?", the answer becomes obvious: "Right here." That is what it means to design belonging, not as a slogan, but as everyday reality.
Forming a "We First" Generation
Mr Alex Yam : Chairman, in a "we first" society, our youth are not just beneficiaries of Singapore's future. They must also be partners in shaping it.
Over the past year, MCCY has engaged many young Singaporeans. These conversations are valuable ones. But the key question is how these conversations translate into sustained pathways for participation.
Young Singaporeans today grow up in a very different environment. They face economic uncertainties, rapid technological change and the constant pressures of the digital world. Member Dr Charlene Chen just spoke about loneliness in our interconnected world today.
Therefore, how is MCCY equipping our young people with the resilience to navigate these pressures while remaining grounded in a sense of shared responsibility for Singapore? What opportunities are there for young Singaporeans to step forward meaningfully in community building, policymaking and service to society?
For example, how can our youths be more actively involved in shaping local initiatives, volunteering networks or national conversations? For example, in Finland, under the Finland Youth Act, municipalities are required to include youths through the youth councils or nuorisovaltuusto and there are over 300 youth councils to cultivate early civic ownership.
Ultimately, the goal is not simply to encourage participation, but to cultivate partnership but to nurture a generation that sees Singapore not just a place to live but as a community they feel responsible for, because when they feel a genuine stake in Singapore, they and we collectively, can unlock the fecundity of their ideas, the initiative and civic imagination. I would appreciate therefore the Minister's thoughts on how we can continue building such a generation.
The Chairman : Responses. Acting Minister Mr David Neo.
The Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (Mr David Neo) : Mr Chairman, I thank Members for their speeches and suggestions and their strong support for the work that we do at MCCY.
Sir, this year, 2026, marks the 60th anniversary of the Singapore pledge. For 60 years, we lived out our ideals of becoming "one united people, regardless of race, language or religion."
In writing the Singapore pledge in 1966, our founding father, Mr S Rajaratnam, articulated his vision of building an inclusive "Singaporean" identity anchored in our model of multiculturalism. Fresh off the uncertainty of separation, we chose to build a united, shared and equal existence as a "we first" collective, rather than co-existence as divided, isolated and competing "me first" communities.
It was a bold vision. Over 60 years, we have built a cohesive multicultural community, where we identify with one another as Singaporeans first.
While Singapore is often noted for our exceptional Third World to First World economic story, what is equally, if not more, exceptional, is our success in fostering a cohesive multicultural society amidst great diversity in race, language and religion.
Today, we again face the uncertainty of a changed world. Externally, the world order that brought us peace and prosperity is being challenged, reversed and dismantled. We have heard how international relations have become more "my interest first", rather than "how can we prosper together". Internally, we face a combination of rapid ageing and fast declining fertility. As Deputy Prime Minister said, it is an existential challenge. We will need to stay open with a carefully managed immigration flow to augment our low birth rate.
Immigrants will need time to adapt. Will we choose unity over division, sharing over isolation and equality over discrimination? It is in these uncertain times that the question, "what makes me a Singaporean" becomes even more salient for us, as individuals and as a nation.
Our national identity, which reflects our core values, our principles and our beliefs, will be what anchors us in a changed world. Only when we are strongly anchored in our collective identity as Singaporeans, can we withstand the tests that will come.
The hon Member Mr Alex Yam spoke about the need for a "we first" national identity. In MCCY, we seek to foster a "we first" society in three ways. Let me elaborate.
First, we need to expand the common space that we share as Singaporeans. At a basic level, we need to do more to get people to interact, bond and identify with one another.
As Members in this Chamber will remember, we used to bond through shared experiences, whether it is watching local television programmes, like Aksi Mat Yoyo or drama serials like 霧鎖南洋, or just going downstairs to play at the dragon playground. But times have changed. With Netflix, YouTube and TikTok, experiences become more individualised. We can be in the same room at the same time, yet have totally different experiences. This reduction of spontaneous, shared experiences have led to an erosion of the bonds that bind us together.
In the recent 2026 IPS study on Fraternity and Social Fabric, Singaporeans report a drop in their number of close friends, from an average of 10.67 in 2018 to 6.49 in 2024. One in 10 Singaporeans profess to have no close friends.
We need to change this. MCCY will step up efforts to foster greater interaction, understanding and respect among Singaporeans, as this is what keeps our Singapore identity strong. We will do this through our strengths in arts, heritage, culture and sport, which form our identity infrastructure.
One of MCCY's priorities going forward is to deepen our multiculturalism, a core value that we all hold dearly.
Over the years, MCCY has consistently invested in preserving and enhancing our multiculturalism. Our arts and heritage programmes, such as ArtsEverywhere@CDC and Heritage Activation Nodes, bring Singaporeans from different backgrounds together to appreciate and understand each other's heritage and culture better. Our Harmony Circles encourage honest conversations, build empathy, trust and respect across differences, so that we do not just live alongside one another, but we stand together and we celebrate each other's cultures and beliefs.
I agree with Mr Mark Lee that we should set our ambitions higher, going beyond peaceful and harmonious co-existence, to foster deep cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.
When I speak with practitioners from our arts and culture groups, they tell me they are starting to notice declining interest among the young to engage in traditional arts. Some youths are trading traditional dance CCAs for contemporary dance styles, such as K-pop. So, while I understand the allure of K-pop and K-drama, we also need to retain our diverse traditional art forms and culture that forms the foundation for our multicultural identity and we need to pass these on to the next generation. So, we will be stepping up our efforts to strengthen our unique multicultural identity.
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NAC will introduce a suite of new initiatives at preschools and MOE schools, to actively expose our younger generations to our ethnic cultures. Minister of State Baey will elaborate on this.
NAC will also launch a new $20 million Multicultural Arts Programme Grant, seeded by both the President's Challenge and the MCCY, to support the development of practitioners of traditional and multicultural arts forms. To reinforce our identity as a multi-ethnic and multicultural nation, the National Heritage Board (NHB), will step up placemaking to strengthen the ethnic identities of our historic districts of Kampong Gelam and Little India. Senior Minister of State Low and Minister of State Dinesh will elaborate further.
Through these initiatives, we want more Singaporeans to appreciate, experience and treasure the multicultural identity that makes us Singaporeans.
On the community front, we will do more to share our unique multicultural identity with newcomers who choose to live, work and study in Singapore. Newcomers need to understand and appreciate that Singapore is not a homogeneous or monocultural society, and they have to adapt to a set of norms that may be different from where they came from.
At the same time, Singaporeans also need to make a conscious effort to share our culture, values and norms with them. The Alliance for Action on Integration of Foreign Professionals that was formed last year has made good progress in putting forth new initiatives, to better integrate foreign professionals into our workplaces and our communities. Minister of State Dinesh will share more.
The second is to encourage people to care for one another and contribute to building Singapore together. While activities bring people together, it is care and connection that keeps us together. This spirit of care is alive and well in our society – we saw this clearly during COVID-19 when people instinctively stepped up in their own different ways. We continue to see it in everyday acts, such as giving up our seats to people who need them more than us.
Our ambition is to build a vibrant and thriving democracy of deeds, where more Singaporeans can contribute to build Singapore together. Many Singaporeans want to step forward.
Take, for instance, Ms Yu Poh Leng. At 60, a breast cancer survivor, Ms Yu discovered the benefits of water exercise during her rehabilitation and was driven to share this gift. She created bite-sized aqua-fitness videos and led twelve classes for seniors from Fei Yue Active Ageing Centre.
The seniors enjoyed the sessions so much that they encouraged Ms Yu to offer these classes more regularly. With support from the Singapore Government Partnerships Office and SportSG, Ms Yu is now an ActiveSG coach and she runs her aqua fitness classes as part of ActiveSG regular programming so that she can impact more seniors.
We want to lower barriers and create more opportunities for Singaporeans, like Ms Yu, to step forward to contribute.
In 2016, we launched Our Singapore Fund to partner citizens and turn their ideas for the community into reality. Our Singapore Fund has since supported more than 800 projects to benefit Singaporeans.
While Our Singapore Fund is very well received and has made a real impact on the ground, there are pain points. For example, the grant cap and short implementation period confined projects; and the need to co-fund posed challenges for smaller ground-up groups or individuals who lacked fundraising capability.
We took this feedback seriously and we have been working very hard to fine-tune this grant. We will launch a new $50 million SG Partnerships Fund over the next five years, as announced by the Prime Minister earlier. This fund supports bigger projects and dreams, welcomes smaller groups and embraces good ideas wherever they come from. Senior Minister of State Low will share more on how this will work.
We want to empower more Singaporeans to contribute meaningfully, so we can build stronger bonds, deeper trust and a greater sense of shared ownership. This is the first step towards building a stronger "we first" society.
Finally, we want to rally the nation to build an inclusive society, where everyone, regardless of their starting point, will be supported to realise their full potential.
Our strength lies in our diversity of talents – from entrepreneurs to artists. When we create pathways that allow Singaporeans to pursue their passion and thrive in their chosen fields, we forge a strong national identity built on the shared belief that every Singaporean matters.
This is especially important for our youths, who will have to overcome new challenges in this uncertain AI-dominated and changed world. As Ms Elysa Chen, Prof Kenneth Poon and Mr Alex Yam pointed out, our youths increasingly struggle with social isolation, worsening mental health outcomes and growing career insecurities.
The National Youth Council (NYC) is committed to support our young people to make them active participants equipped with the skills, opportunities and support systems to thrive and fulfil their aspirations. Senior Parliamentary Secretary Goh will share more about our initiatives in this area.
Let me now turn to sport development. Sport is a powerful unifier for all Singaporeans, transcending age and ability. Sport creates genuine human connection. Sport also ignites national pride and solidifies our national identity, as Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh pointed out.
MCCY and SportSG will step up efforts to further democratise sports participation among youths. I share Mr Alex Yam's concerns that sport CCAs should not be something only for the naturally gifted or those who can afford prior training.
We will provide more platforms where children can play to nurture their love of the game – so that every child has more opportunities to experience what sport can teach them about themselves and others. We introduced the School Sports Fiesta last year to bring students from different schools together to play sports. To date, we have held Fiestas for 16 schools and well over 2,000 students.
Fifteen-year-old Aryaa Geajaindren from St Gabriel's Secondary School had never considered playing basketball. The School Sports Fiesta sparked a desire in him to explore the sport more deeply. He is now pursuing basketball competitively.
We want more students to benefit from this. So, we will double and bring the School Sports Fiesta to 32 schools by 2027.
Another platform is through CCAs, where students train together, forging bonds through sweat, blood and tears. CCAs are where many of us made our closest friends, forged through hours spent laughing and crying together in training. This sustained interaction and tight bonds is precisely what we want to nurture. However, with schools taking in smaller cohorts and students having more diverse interests, some schools may not have enough students to start a CCA.
This is why MCCY and MOE introduced Strategic Partnership CCAs (SP-CCAs) so that more students will get to participate in the CCA of their choice. We will launch more in the next few years.
As a ground-up initiative, some schools have also come together to form Multi-School CCA Teams. For example, ACS (Barker Road) and Queensway Secondary came together to form a hockey team that trained together and competed together at the National School Games (NSG). To encourage more of such collaborations, we will launch a new $10 million grant for Multi-School CCA Teams. Each team will receive $200,000 over four years to be invested among the partner schools, which can be used to partially fund facility, transportation or coaching costs.
NSG participation has been increasing steadily. This year will see its highest participation to date, with around 69,000 student-athletes from more than 300 schools competing across 29 sports. We want to expand this to provide more opportunities for our student-athletes. MCCY and MOE will start a new initiative to work with ready, able and willing NSAs to introduce more sports into the NSG.
The power of sport to unite and build connections goes beyond schools. The friendships forged through playing together, the encouragement shared during a challenging game and the growth that comes from pushing our limits. These are experiences that all Singaporeans, regardless of age and ability, should continue to have access to throughout their lives.
Therefore, SportSG will also step up our efforts to democratise sports in the community and ensure that everyone can continue to bond and to live better through sport. Ms Gho Sze Kee will be glad to hear that we have been steadily expanding sport spaces, especially in the heartlands. We have renovated four sport facilities, such as the Delta Sport Centre and the ActiveSG Sport Park @ Teck Ghee, and completed 15 development projects, including Bukit Canberra and the ActiveSG Sport Village @ Jurong Town.
Within a year, we will be completing three facilities to provide more localised sport access. They are Queenstown, Hougang and the new Punggol Regional Sport Centre.
We have also completed 11 Sport-in-Precinct facilities with another 11 undergoing construction in Tampines North, Keat Hong, Whampoa and Kembangan, amongst others. Our facilities are well-utilised and see over 20 million visitors annually. As more Singaporeans embrace active lifestyles, there is also a rise in demand for public facilities during peak hours, particularly for popular sports, like badminton and pickleball.
Therefore, I am happy to announce that we will build 50 multi-purpose courts for badminton or pickleball over the next five years. This includes the recently opened eight dual-use pickleball courts at The Kallang and we will soon complete another eight pickleball courts at the Little India Bus Terminal.
As we build these new courts, we are mindful of managing noise levels at residential estates. I commend Ms Gho Sze Kee's efforts in arbitrating citizen considerations and pushing for foam balls that are quieter in her ward. This is "we first" in action.
SportSG will work with community stakeholders on solutions. And where it meets space and height requirements, we will also activate underutilised spaces, such as spaces under viaducts in our neighbourhoods, so that these facilities are conveniently located closer to Singaporeans, but far enough to manage noise levels.
We can see an example like the Gali Batu flyover. I hope this addresses Ms Goh Sze Kee's concerns and I also hope that this is more than a 80% solution.
To Assoc Prof Jamus Lim, the issue with the MND is not about revenue loss, but it is about whether residents are well served, especially noise, as many multi-storey car parks are located very close to flats.
I believe on 4 November, there was also a Parliamentary Question filed by Member Mr David Hoe, which received a comprehensive reply from MND on what the considerations were. Perhaps I will point the Member to look up that Parliamentary Question reply.
Sporting spaces are just the first step. They must follow with more programmes for all ages and abilities. We have ActiveSG Academies and Clubs, that are open to children and youths to play the sport they like. Some go on to developmental programmes in high performance sport. We also have ActiveSG Interest Groups and Learn-to-Play programmes for adults who wish to pick up a new sport or just to play recreationally.
We are committed to offering more of such programmes and will study what Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh has mentioned about the SG Sport Pass.
Mr Andre Low asked about access to strength training to combat ageing-related frailty. We have introduced the Frailty Prevention Programme (FPP) for seniors. This enables them to age healthily and continue to build social connections through sport.
Under the FPP, SportSG rolled out the eight-week Combat Age-related Loss of Muscle (CALM) programme at Active Ageing Centres in 2024. Since then, CALM has yielded positive physical changes in our seniors. One of them is Ms Florence Soo. After experiencing a stroke in 2025, she joined CALM 1.0.
Under the guidance of her trainer, Ms Florence gradually regained her strength, mobility and flexibility, including improvements in her breathing and mood. This experience is not just unique to Ms Florence. In fact, almost all CALM participants reported improved functional performance in at least one measure, such as handgrip strength or gait speed.
To date, CALM strengthening programme has been implemented at 132 Active Ageing Centres, reaching about 4,000 seniors and we target to reach 180 AACs and 5,500 seniors by the end of this year.
Besides CALM, our seniors have also found adaptive sport attractive and useful in keeping them active, healthy and socially connected, whether it is through seated floorball or disc golf.
As part of the FPP, SportSG has progressively equipped 200 AACs with adaptive sport equipment. By the end of 2026, we will target to equip all AACs so that more seniors can participate in adaptive sport. Mr Low will also be glad to know that at the end of the CALM programme, participants are introduced to HUR machines. Almost all Senior Care Centres and some AACs are equipped with these variable weight machines.
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Last year, we also launched the Seniors National Games (SNG), where seniors represented their AACs to compete across five adaptive sports.
We are heartened by the turnout – over 4,500 seniors from 110 AACs and even more family, friends and fans – and the positive feedback on how the SNG provided opportunities for seniors to not only keep active but also build connections and have fun. We invite more seniors to take part this year.
For persons with disabilities, we launched the Enabling Sports Fund (ESF) last year, supported by the President's Challenge and as part of the refreshed Disability Sports Master Plan to support community-initiated projects.
We received many good proposals. One of these is from SUN-DAC, which created iBoccia, a modification of the Paralympic sport, Boccia. iBoccia is customised and suitable for both persons with intellectual or other disabilities and their able-bodied teammates. Through the Fund, SUN-DAC will introduce iBoccia to more persons with disabilities.
Altogether, the ESF will support 21 initiatives for more than 8,000 persons with different disabilities across more than 20 sports.
Sport also opens doors for Singaporeans to chase their dreams. With the right support, we believe our athletes can realise their aspirations and their full potential.
Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh asked for an update on athlete support. We have put in place spexPotential to nurture athletes with potential for gold medal success at the Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games).
We have increased stipends and introduced Central Provident Fund (CPF) top-ups for our spexScholars to make competitive sport more financially viable. We signed agreements with six autonomous universities to create more athlete-friendly environments and launched the spexEducation Undergraduate Scholarships for athletes to pursue both education and competitive sport.
Take for example, Ryan Lo, a gold medallist at the Asian Games 2023 and last year's SEA Games and two-time Olympian sailor.
The spexEducation Programme Office worked closely with James Cook University to balance his academic commitments with training and competitions. He is on track to complete his business degree with a shorter duration, enabling him to pursue both his sporting ambitions and educational aspirations. Ryan will also be defending his title at this years' Asian Games, so let us cheer him on.
We want to do more for athletes like Ryan. We are reorganising ourselves to achieve this.
This April, we will consolidate our key sport entities – the High Performance Sport Institute (HPSI), the Singapore Sports School (SSP) and Unleash the Roar! – into a new entity that we call Sport Excellence Singapore (SpexSG). I would like to update Mr Alex Yam that this consolidation will materially transform the sporting ecosystem for the better.
First, we will enhance the breadth and depth of our support to athletes by making our high performance sports system more athlete-centric and whole-of-life. To enable more of our athletes to stay longer and go further in sport, we will support them with specialist expertise and in managing sporting commitments and other demands of life.
Under SpexSG, we will expand our Athlete Life Management capabilities to support athletes in a wide range of areas, like tertiary education, career development, family planning, financial literacy and personal growth. Our athlete life performance managers have commenced personalised consultations with top athletes, co-developing plans to help them manage major life transitions.
Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh will be glad to know that we will also run workshops to equip our athletes with skills in areas, such as personal branding, entrepreneurship, mental wellness literacy and media training. We will also deepen and integrate sport science and sport medicine (SSSM) support for our athletes.
A key benefit of the consolidation is the pooling of our SSSM expertise and knowledge. This will increase our capacity and open more opportunities for cross-knowledge transfer and pathways for career progression. Our athletes will see more dedicated and consistent support across sports and, as a system, we reap synergies that we otherwise would not if the entities remain separated.
Second, within SpexSG, we will strengthen SSP's role as our education concierge for all Team Singapore student-athletes.
Today, SSP provides a dedicated high-performance developmental pathway for youth athletes at the secondary and post-secondary levels. With the consolidation, we will capitalise on SSP's expertise and we will offer this to all Team Singapore student-athletes, regardless of age or school.
SSP currently avails its annual University and Scholarship Fair and university advisory services to Team Singapore student-athletes. Going ahead, it will support Team Singapore student-athletes in all six of our local autonomous universities. SSP will also work with NSAs to allow talented student-athletes to transfer to SSP whenever they are ready to commit, regardless of where they are at in their secondary or post-secondary journey.
SSP is also developing capabilities to support overseas-based Team Singapore student-athletes so that they can learn with their SSP classmates in Singapore for both the secondary and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
SSP will further enhance its partnerships with NSAs and lean forward with boarding and facilities support.
One example is the Junior Performance Pathway Programme, a collaboration between SSP and the Singapore Badminton Association. Under this programme, student-athletes who are not studying at SSP can access training sessions at SSP and they can also board with SSP. SSP will continue to develop such partnerships with more NSAs.
Altogether, these changes will enable our student-athletes to pursue their aspirations and realise their full potential.
Third, SpexSG will tighten integration with our NSAs, empowering them to develop their sport for excellence.
Like Mr Jackson Lam, I too hear from NSAs their aspirations and challenges. We will strengthen our support for and partnerships with the NSAs.
NSAs will now have a single point of contact to address their high-performance and pathway development needs, whether through a dedicated high performance sport manager or a shared service desk. For new and emerging NSAs, we will also develop a playbook to guide them in achieving Charity status.
We will also have media communication trainings for NSAs to enhance media management capabilities and athlete profiling efforts. SpexSG will also expand secondment opportunities for sport administrators to more NSAs. Today, SportSG seconds chief executive officers, general managers and high performance managers to NSAs, such as Sailing, Fencing and Badminton.
I hope Mr Jackson Lam and Ms Valerie Lee will be happy with these changes.
But above all, SpexSG will transform the end-to-end journey of our national athletes to be a lot more integrated and seamless. Let me illustrate with basketball. The 3x3 basketball is gaining popularity because of its high-intensity and fast-paced game play. Our men's and women's team are both ranked top six in Asia Pacific.
But we can do better.
Previously, our young basketball athletes trained separately. The National Youth teams come together for a few months before major competitions and then, they separate after that. This ad hoc training environment does not develop their technical skill, decision-making speed and high-performance habits to their full potential, neither does it build team chemistry. Sport science support is reactive at best.
We want to create a more integrated pathway that brings together our young athletes more consistently so that we can strengthen individual mastery and team cohesion. That is why SSP, HPSI and the Basketball Association of Singapore established a new Under-19 National Youth Development Programme at SSP.
How does this look like for an athlete? Let me illustrate it with an athlete's story.
Emily Elessa is a high potential talent in the national Under-16 girls' team that won a silver medal in the Under-16 Southeast Asia Basketball Association qualifiers last year. Recently, she decided to transfer from her Direct School Admission (DSA) school, Yishun Secondary School, to SSP to pursue her aspiration to represent Singapore at the senior level.
Before, Emily trained twice a week in her secondary school, separately from her national teammates and under a different coach, until competition period nears. Now, Emily trains up to 10 times per week for both the 3x3 national team and the National Youth Development Programme under national coaches with a standardised coaching pedagogy. This consistency means that Emily is building the right technical, physical and mental foundations for progression into the senior national team.
Emily will also now have year-round sport science and sport medicine support.
Beyond sport, Emily will also be able to build a strong academic foundation in SSP, with all the flexibility that Team Singapore athletes need. She will also have access to the suite of Athlete Life Management offerings where she can seek guidance for her other life priorities so she can be ready for life.
SpexSG will work with more NSAs so more of our national athletes can be supported like Emily.
Mr Chairman, let me conclude. After 60 years of nation building, we have bonded over our shared experience, built a strong multicultural community that will step up to drive positive change. We forged a united society that identifies ourselves first as Singaporeans and not by our race, language or religion.
Faced again with the uncertainty of a changed world, let us stand on the shoulders of our Pioneers and choose to build an even more cohesive and stronger Singapore, one where our ethnic and religious communities not only live in harmony, but share a deep appreciation for one another's culture, one where everyone contributes actively to care for and uplift others in our community, one where everyone can fulfil their aspirations and reach their full potential, one that is truly a "we first" society.
Mr Mark Lee asked what success looks like. Mr Chairman, I believe it is the Singapore that Mr S Rajaratnam envisioned as he wrote our pledge 60 years ago – where we come together to celebrate our diverse cultures and share the same "we first" values, where we choose to be united as one people, trust each other, uplift one another, give back to society and where everyone can succeed on their own terms, where we cast aside our differences in race, language or religion; and we contribute in our own way to build our nation, where every Singaporean, regardless of their starting point, can achieve their full potential.
Let us come together and work towards this dream just like how our forefathers did when Mr S Rajaratnam first wrote our pledge. Let us not be mere spectators, but pledge ourselves as one united people, so that we can achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation. [ Applause. ]
The Chairman : Senior Minister of State Low Yen Ling.
The Senior Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth (Ms Low Yen Ling) : Mr Chairman, I recently visited the Founders' Memorial's "Not Mere Spectators" exhibition.
Since 1959, Singapore's diversity has been built and held together by our people's active participation. Throughout the years, Singaporeans stepped forward to care for one another and uphold our unity in diversity. One example is the People's Cultural Concerts. These were performances by the people, for the people, nurturing a sense of belonging, mutual respect and shared identity. Held in open spaces across Singapore, people came together to perform, watch and learn together.
Several Pioneers in our arts scene, like Dr Uma Rajan and Mdm Som Said, performed at these concerts and became lifelong friends. Their experiences at these concerts left them with a deep conviction that multiculturalism must be lived and not just be spoken about. Both, in fact, went on to shape Singapore's cultural landscape.
Our nation's early years and journey reflect the seeds and the foundation of the "we first" society that we seek to forge. We see this "we first" spirit at different levels of our society where Singaporeans care, share and uplift each other.
At the individual level, we see it in volunteers, like Mdm Ratnam Periowsamy. She is 90 years old. At 90, she is the oldest volunteer at Care Corner's AAC in Toa Payoh East. She goes door-to-door to check on seniors living alone and organises activities for them. Her example shows us that you can contribute and care, regardless of age.
At the community level, groups, like the Kampong Gelam Association, came together to develop the Kampong Gelam Place Plan to enhance the precinct's heritage and cultural importance.
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At the business level, we see the "we first" spirit in companies like aAdvantage. About half of their 20 staff members receive time off to volunteer regularly at a nursing home.
Mr Chairman, the common thread that we shared earlier at the individual, business and community levels show ordinary Singaporeans and groups stepping forward to make a difference, a big impact on our society. This is the kind of "we first" spirit that MCCY seeks to spark, spur and strengthen.
We will do so by, number one, creating common spaces through our heritage. We will bring people together, both physically and in spirit, to foster a stronger sense of community. And number two, by encouraging and enabling active citizenry to ensure that good ideas are turned into actions and no one is left behind.
Chairman, when we speak about heritage as a common space, we are referring not only to our landmarks, but also to familiar places within our neighbourhoods – places that hold meaning, memory and shared experience among Singaporeans.
Mr Foo Cexiang asked about MCCY's plan to allow more Singaporeans to play an active role in celebrating our neighbourhood heritage. Through the NHB's Heritage Activation Nodes (HANs), NHB partners residents and stakeholders to co-create programmes celebrating their neighbourhood.
Since two years ago, in 2024, NHB has launched three HANs across Singapore that has drawn more than 30,000 visitors. They are in Katong-Joo Chiat, Clementi and Punggol.
In Katong-Joo Chiat, there is a mural of a mama shop along Lorong Stangee, created by local artist Mr Alvin Mark Tan based on his childhood memories. This mural has inspired passers-by to contribute their stories and old photos of Joo Chiat.
Across the three HANs, more than 360 volunteers have stepped forward to deepen our local community heritage.
Building on this momentum, NHB will launch two new HANs in 2026. One will be in Telok Blangah, in partnership with Participate in Design. It will focus on uncovering hidden neighbourhood gems and stories. And the other HAN will be in Tiong Bahru, with Tiong Bahru Community Centre as our partner. It will celebrate public housing architecture, religious sites as well as heritage businesses. In addition, we will continue to steward our landmarks and historic districts carefully, so they remain meaningful to all Singaporeans and are sensitively integrated into the everyday lives of surrounding communities.
Ms Joan Pereira asked for a whole-of-Government approach in assessing the future public use of 38 Oxley Road and to consult neighbouring residents throughout the decision-making process. As mentioned by Acting Minister David Neo in his previous Ministerial Statement, MCCY will certainly study possible options to make the site accessible to the public, so it can become part of our shared memory and a common space for all Singaporeans.
The acquisition process for the site is ongoing. Once access is obtained, NHB will conduct a holistic study in consultation with the relevant agencies, to assess how the public education value of the site can be optimised. We will work with the Member, as well as the relevant Government agencies, to engage residents living nearby the site, and consider ideas and feedback to minimise any potential disamenities.
To enhance and protect our historic districts, NHB will establish a Placemaking Project Office under the Interagency Task Force for Heritage Businesses, Traditional Trades and Cultural Life, which I co-chair with Senior Minister of State Faishal Ibrahim.
The Project Office will work closely with key district stakeholders, like the Kampong Gelam Association, Little India Shopkeepers and Heritage Association and Chinatown Business Association, to better understand their needs and empower them to enliven their precincts. In addition, the Project Office will provide seed funding, link groups to relevant agencies and build capabilities to design, implement and scale placemaking initiatives.
Heritage businesses play an important role in enhancing the unique character of our historic districts and serve as community anchors. Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh asked whether more targeted succession planning support could be given to preserve heritage businesses and support their financial viability. We recognise that succession planning can be complex and deeply personal. Where heritage businesses are ready to pass down the reins, our agencies will certainly provide support. This includes business improvement initiatives, such as NHB's Organisation Transformation Grant.
For example, Rumah Makan Minang, a third-generation family-run restaurant, tapped on this grant to strengthen its long-term sustainability by reviewing and restructuring roles within the family business.
NHB will also be working with citizen volunteers to document heritage businesses and their contributions as part of the Little India Citizen Engagement Project. Interested members of the community can look out for NHB's call for citizen volunteers for the exercise, which will be announced by May this year.
These efforts remind us that heritage endures not only because it is preserved by institutions, but because it is kept alive by people.
Chairman, besides strengthening our sense of community through heritage spaces, we will nurture the growth of a "we first" society by spurring active citizenry. We want to see everyone coming together to shape and take ownership of our shared future.
To spark active citizenry, we set up the Singapore Government Partnerships Office two years ago in 2024. Last year, the Government received more than 1,600 partnership proposals addressing a wide range of community needs. Let me cite two quick examples.
Project #JalanJalan. It is a youth-led performing arts ground-up with the mission to connect people through performances in public spaces. During SG60, they staged more than 20 performances across five locations. Another project is Skillseed, an established community builder that works with residents to uncover neighbourhood stories and to strengthen local leadership. Skillseed seeks to build trust, capability and ownership within the community.
Both projects had different starting points, but they have the same spirit of contribution. Such citizen-driven initiatives have immense potential to spread their impact and outreach.
That is where the new SG Partnerships Fund announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and just now by Acting Minister David Neo, will play a key role to spur and strengthen active citizenry. As requested by Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim, I will briefly share how the fund is tailored. It is tailored to empower different levels of ground-up ideas and activities through three tiers of support.
First, the Seed tier aims to grow a democracy of deeds by supporting citizen-led ideas, even nascent ones, with accessible and low-barrier funding, up to a maximum of $5,000 for one year. We hope that this tier, with its simple application process, will motivate more individuals and ground-ups to come forward with their ideas, no matter how small, to address community needs or to better the lives of fellow Singaporeans.
The next tier, the Sprout tier, aims to grow the circle of ground action by providing support for those with proven ideas to amplify their impact and outreach. It is also the next tier of funding that successful "graduates" of Seed tier recipients could apply to, to grow their project ideas.
To qualify for the Sprout tier, individuals or ground-ups need to demonstrate track record in implementing projects of a similar nature or have conducted successful pilots of the proposed idea. This tier provides up to 80% funding, capped at $50,000, up to a period of two years.
Finally, the Scale tier is for organisations that aim to deliver systemic or sector-wide social impact or to foster cross-sector partnerships with measurable outcomes. This can take the form of large-scale initiatives that grow civic participation or capacity. Similar to Sprout, applicants for this tier would need to demonstrate prior success in implementing projects of similar nature and that the proposed idea has achieved tangible results in pilots.
Chairman, we recognise that implementing such programmes could require greater capacity from the organisations. Therefore, we will work with successful Scale applicants, to strengthen their capabilities to execute their projects more sustainably. The fund will provide up to 80% funding, capped at $1 million over three years. The fund will also cover capacity costs, such as manpower and training.
Ms Elysa Chen asked about ringfencing SG Partnerships Fund's funding to support youth- or parent-led initiatives, and if the fund should be increased to boost mutual support and neighbourliness. I want to respond to her and assure her that, currently, the SG Partnerships Fund is sized at $50 million over five years. We wish to ensure that it remains accessible to encourage a broad range of initiatives that leads to positive change for our communities, certainly including youths and certainly including parents.
The SG Partnerships Fund also complements existing schemes, such as the NYC's Young ChangeMakers Grant and the National Youth Fund (NYF). I want to assure her that we will review the SG Partnerships Fund's impact on catalysing projects that support active citizenry, before we consider enlarging it.
Applications will open from next month, April 2026, and more information will be released on the Singapore Government Partnerships Office's website. We welcome and we invite all Singaporeans to step forward and make a difference. Your ideas and efforts matter, and we can create a "we first" Singapore where no one walks alone.
Chairman, a "we first" society is built when people, communities and businesses step forward to serve the collective good. Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim has asked how we can rally more to do so.
First, we will incentivise and actively support corporate volunteerism. As Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced, the Corporate Volunteer Scheme will be extended for three more years. This allows companies to enjoy 250% tax deductions on qualifying expenditures when employees volunteer with IPCs, including employee's salaries and volunteering supplies.
Second, we will help companies build capability and confidence to contribute and shape our society for the better. For instance, the partnership between the Singapore Business Federation and VolunteerInc. provides companies with training, guidance and connections to community organisations.
Since the programme was launched in July last year, more than 100 companies have stepped forward to partner VolunteerInc.
One of them is, Coface, a multinational trade credit insurance company, which launched a drive to develop adaptive floorball sessions for elderly persons. Last year, 52 Coface volunteers contributed 624 hours of their time over eight floorball sessions. And this very meaningful initiative saw the seniors gain confidence through adaptive floorball; form friendships not just amongst the elderly, and also with the Coface employees; and rediscover the joy of staying active.
Over the next five years, we aim to mobilise 600 companies and 6,000 employees to participate in similar projects.
Third, we will continue to nurture a culture of giving back. In 2025, under the National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre's Company of Good initiative recognised 371 companies for their contributions. Then there is the Collective for a Stronger Society, launched two years ago, in 2024, and led by the Community Foundation of Singapore, which brings together Government agencies, donors and community partners to better support lower-income families. To date, Collective for a Stronger Society has raised approximately $16 million, translating generosity into meaningful support for families who need it most.
Ms Elysa Chen asked whether the Government is considering alternative ways to encourage neighbourliness and mutual help, for example, through time-banking. While time banking is a good idea to increase neighbourliness and foster mutual help, there may be practical implementation challenges. However, I want to assure her that there are community-led initiatives that have similar objectives to time banking.
For example, Thye Hua Kwan's Moral Charities implemented a programme, supported by the DBS Foundation, where AAC participants take on short micro-tasks based on their abilities and schedules, and receive small allowances upon completion. I want to assure her that MCCY will be happy to support similar ground-up initiatives, including any time-banking pilots, under the just-announced SG Partnerships Fund.
Chairman, while corporate and organised giving matter greatly, a "we first" society is also expressed through everyday acts of care. Volunteerism, therefore, is vital to growing active citizenry. Our island-wide network of 24 SG Cares Volunteer Centres works closely with communities to identify and address their needs.
More than 720 volunteers from semiconductor manufacturer, Micron, partnered with the SG Cares Volunteer Centre in Sembawang to run Micron Kampong, which befriends seniors and brings them on outings and festive visits. This year, we aim to engage 36,000 volunteers to benefit 180,000 service users.
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When corporates, community groups, and individuals choose to step forward, to connect, to care and to contribute, the foundations of active citizenry are built and the seeds for a "we first" society are sown. Chairman, allow me to speak in Mandarin.
( In Mandarin ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Mr Chairman, the foundation of Singapore's nation-building is the establishment of a harmonious and prosperous multiracial and multicultural society. We often say, "First, the nation; then the home" – first "we"; then "me". The core tenet of prioritising "we" over "me" is the foundation upon which Singapore relies for survival and prosperity.
To deepen our sense of "we first", we hope to adopt a three-pronged approach through "business", "community" and "individuals" to strengthen mutual care and build a "we first" society.
First, the Government will continue to harness our heritage and culture to create more common spaces to strengthen social cohesion.
NHB will establish a Placemaking Project Office to work with businesses, associations and individuals within the community to enliven our historic districts and strengthen Singaporeans' sense of identity.
We will also add on to our existing three Heritage Activation Nodes with the introduction of two new Nodes in Telok Blangah and Tiong Bahru, which are both neighbourhoods rich in history and culture.
The SG Partnerships Fund announced by Prime Minister Wong and Acting Minister Neo, will provide tiered funding for community initiatives of different stages and scale, under a clear framework. This five-year programme has a total budget of $50 million.
From the "Seed" stage with an annual cap of $5,000, to the "Sprout" stage with up to $50,000 up to a period of two years, to the "Scale" stage with up to $1 million over three years, the Government hopes to encourage individuals and organisations to start small and share more creative good ideas with more people to unite the community through progressive support.
Enterprises, companies and professional bodies can also establish initiatives through the "Corporate Volunteer Scheme" to encourage employees to give back to the community through volunteer service.
A "we first" society needs an active citizenry working together to realise it. When corporates, community groups, and individuals come together, we will be able to create a harmonious, united and progressive home and society that belong to us.
( In English ): Chairman, let us aspire and work towards the "we first" society we hope for, where no Singaporean walks alone and where people of all races, backgrounds and creeds are joined together by our common hope and vision of a caring and cohesive Singapore.
We see the seeds of what that "we first" spirit blossoming in the examples we shared today, from 90-year-old Mdm Periowsamy to the dedicated volunteers from Coface and our many Companies of Good.
MCCY will continue to partner Singaporeans to create the conditions for this spirit to grow. Let us shape a "we first" Singapore, strong and resilient, and stronger together.
The Chairman : Minister of State Baey Yam Keng.
The Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth (Mr Baey Yam Keng) : Mr Chairman, Acting Minister spoke about how multiculturalism bridges communities and forms the core of who we are as Singaporeans. Multiculturalism is and has always been, the bedrock of the Singapore identity.
For Singapore, a sense of shared identity is essential. It holds us together and gives us a sense of belonging. Our multicultural identity reminds us of what it means to be Singaporean. Today, we embrace it as a way of life.
This was on display just recently, when Chinese New Year coincided with the start of Ramadan. Last Saturday afternoon in my constituency, I saw Muslim residents doing the lohei together with the community at a Chinese New Year celebration and grassroot leaders dabaoing the buffet, so that they can enjoy it after breaking fast.
Even so, there is more that we can do and should do to deepen our multicultural DNA. Around the world, we see how social diversity leads to fragmentation. It is therefore critical that we strengthen our cross-cultural understanding and deepen our shared identity.
This is where the arts can be a powerful catalyst. Through the arts, we get to know ourselves and where we came from. More importantly, arts encourage us to look beyond their differences and value our commonalities.
It is encouraging that in the Population Survey on the Arts, conducted by the NAC, eight in 10 Singaporeans agreed that the arts allow us to better understand people from different backgrounds and cultures.
Over the years, the local arts scene has developed generations of practitioners, groups and platforms that embody Singapore's diverse cultural traditions.
Two weeks ago, I attended the Spring Reception held at the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre. One of the performances was a multi-ethnic percussive showcase. Drum Feng opened the performance with Chinese drums, which was then joined by Nadi Singapura's kompang and rebana drums, and Singapore Dhol Squad's parai drums. These instruments from different cultures blended seamlessly to deliver a great performance.
We will continue to support our traditional arts and culture, so that this precious part of our cultural heritage is passed down to future generations.
Various artists and arts groups whom we have consulted gave us this advice to develop multiculturalism through and in the arts. We must work harder to engage the young to understand and appreciate the cultural heritage within and across the various ethnic communities and to expand the reach of monocultural traditional art forms within the general population. In particular, we should promote cross-cultural awareness and appreciation. By building these bridges, we learn to better appreciate the culture and art forms outside our own ethnic community.
Upon this strong foundation, we can do more to support cross-cultural artistic creations that are sophisticated, innovative, high quality and that are uniquely Singapore.
To achieve this, we will provide more support to promote the development of multicultural art forms, whether through productions that infuse the influences of other cultures, creations and organisations that express our multiculturalism, or artists learning a new cultural art form from another ethnic community.
This must start at a young age. As Ms Eileen Chong spoke about, fostering greater participation among the young is important for the long-term sustainability of the arts sector. Early and meaningful engagement with our diverse arts traditions lays the foundation for our children and youths to appreciate one another's cultures. NAC is expanding opportunities for students to do so.
At the preschool level, NAC will commission artists and arts groups to develop offerings that enable sustained access to arts experiences. One of the programmes, designed with The Artground, focuses on multicultural arts. The programme will feature Malay and Indian dance, Peranakan arts, traditional hand puppetry and Chinese Opera. NAC will pilot these programmes with selected preschools.
At the secondary school level, NAC will introduce a two-year Ethnic Fusion Dance Programme, delivered by O School Limited. This enrichment programme will allow students from different schools to learn about various ethnic dance forms together, then apply them in contemporary dance. The students will have a chance to audition for a final showcase at Super 24, a regional competition featuring dance groups from across Asia.
We will strengthen funding support for schools to bring in artists to deliver traditional and multicultural arts learning experiences.
Currently, under the Artist-in-School Scheme, NAC funds 70% of supportable costs for schools to bring in artist-run programmes, up to $15,000 per year per school. NAC will increase support for artist-run traditional and multicultural programmes under the AISS, to fund 100% of supportable costs, up to $25,000 per year per school.
For 2026, NAC has curated close to 300 programmes under the NAC-Arts Education Programme, working with MOE schools to nurture an appreciation of Singapore's multicultural identity among students across all levels. This is nearly a 35% increase from 2025, offering schools more choices to spark greater interest in multicultural arts.
Beyond schools, we will increase the exposure of multicultural arts in the community. We have been doing this through ArtsEverywhere@CDC, which brings arts and cultural performances to our everyday spaces. For example, Sri Warisan Som Said Performing Arts presented a blend of traditional Malay art forms, with musicians playing the angklungs, dancers weaving melodies into stories and intricate wayang golek puppets. The initiative has reached audiences of more than 63,000 since its launch in 2024.
Looking ahead, we will focus on showcasing Singapore's multiculturalism through ArtsEverywhere@CDC in our heartlands.
We will introduce more traditional arts and cross-cultural performances and programmes. These will deepen Singaporeans' understanding and appreciation of the cultures and traditions of different ethnic communities. For instance, the Open Score Project, co-founded by Gildon Choo, combines global ethnic musical cultures and pushes the boundaries of cross-cultural collaboration. As part of ArtsEverywhere@CDC, their ensemble performed at Jurong Lake Gardens last year. Through such programmes, we can grow a deeper appreciation for arts experiences that connect our cultures.
We want to encourage even more arts practitioners and groups to nurture connections and collaborations that express who we are as a people. To support this, I am happy to announce a new Multicultural Arts Programme Grant, seeded by the President's Challenge and MCCY; $20 million will be available over the next five years to support practitioners and organisations developing traditional and multicultural art forms and promoting cross-cultural engagement through the arts.
The Grant will support artists and projects blending elements from different cultures, traditions and disciplines. This could support artists who interweave elements from different cultures in a meaningful way and those who wish to develop mastery in art forms beyond their own cultural traditions. It will also support ecosystem-building activities that strengthen the multicultural arts landscape. The Multicultural Arts Programme Grant will be launched in the coming months, and NAC will share more details then.
Another initiative that expands access to local arts and culture offerings is the SG Culture Pass, launched in September 2025. Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh had asked whether it is reaching new audiences. I am pleased to share that over 1.2 million citizens have registered for the SG Culture Pass. Of these, seven in 10 had not attended a local arts and culture programme in the past five years. Among those who have used their credits, nine in 10 expressed interest to attend another local programme. Through the Culture Pass, Singaporeans have discovered more about different cultures in Singapore beyond their own.
I thank Assoc Prof Terence Ho for suggesting regular top-ups of the Culture Pass, first-timer discounts and bonus credits. As the scheme was just launched recently, MCCY will monitor utilisation trends before making adjustments. Nevertheless, we are encouraged by the statistics, which show that the Culture Pass has helped Singaporeans discover the diversity of our local cultural landscape.
Assoc Prof Terence Ho also asked about whether more could be done to support our local publishers and bookstores. Since 1 March 2026, Singaporeans have been able to spend their Culture Pass credits on Sing Lit books at participating bookstores. This strengthens our support of the local literary arts sector and directly benefits publishers and bookstores.
Besides expanding access to the arts and developing audiences, we are exploring ways to harness the potential of the arts to generate positive social impact.
One such area is in arts education research. Positive engagement with the arts from a young age supports holistic development. Through sustained and localised research, we can better determine how arts-based education can nurture the next generation of Singaporeans.
MCCY has commissioned a five-year research study on how arts engagement can boost creativity and strengthen the socio-emotional well-being of our students. The study is led by the National Institute of Education, in partnership with MCCY, NAC and the Esplanade. Through this study, we hope to provide insights for schools and arts agencies that inform efforts to support youth development.
Another emerging area that shows great promise is the nexus of arts and well-being. The National Gallery Singapore's Slow Art Guide is an example, delivered through a self-guided audio experience and reflection booklets. Through slow looking and mindfulness exercises, the initiative encourages visitors to engage mindfully with artworks. This evidence-based approach positively impacts mental health and cognitive function.
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As Singapore's population ages, the arts provide a platform for our seniors to live and age well. NAC has partnered SingHealth Community Hospitals and the Agency for Integrated Care on a research study. The study aims to determine the impact of arts programmes on senior well-being. The insights will help design effective interventions to support our seniors.
NAC is also working with the arts community and healthcare and community care practitioners on a series of arts programmes. These programmes are designed to enhance the well-being of seniors at AACs. We aim to grow the pipeline of skilled practitioners who can deliver effective arts-based well-being programmes. We have conducted these programmes in 28 AACs and aim to reach a total of 110 centres by 2028.
Dr Kenneth Goh and Ms Goh Sze Kee asked about how we are supporting our artists to build sustainable and resilient careers.
We will continue to invest in the growth and development of our local arts and culture sector to support its ambitions. This includes encouraging and catalysing private sector support through measures, such as the Cultural Matching Fund, which provides matching grants for donations to arts and heritage charities and to date, more than $450 million has been matched to around 130 unique charities, and we also have the Patrons of the Arts and Patron of Heritage Awards to recognise contributions to the local culture sector.
Arts self-employed persons (SEPs) form a significant segment of Singapore's arts workforce. We are committed to empowering them to build capabilities and forge meaningful careers.
Since I launched the Arts Resource Hub back in 2019, more than 4,000 SEPs have subscribed to the Arts Resource Hub. This is around two thirds of our arts SEPs in Singapore.
Julian Low is one example. He went through the Arts Resource Hub's IGNITE programme, which provided mentorship, networks and guidance in building a brand identity. Julian established Wushiren Theatre with his wife in 2024. Their debut production, I Am Finally In Love With The World, was successfully staged in 2025.
We recognise that our arts SEPs face evolving challenges that require enhanced support. I am happy to announce that NAC will enhance the Arts Resource Hub to better address the challenges they face.
Over the years, the Arts Resource Hub has provided SEPs access to legal guidance through contract templates and peer learning opportunities. We are starting a partnership with Pro Bono SG this year. It will provide SEPs with education programmes and tailored resources to strengthen their understanding of legal topics and empower them to capitalise on opportunities. SEPs can also tap on consultations with a dedicated onsite lawyer.
NAC will also introduce a new Creative Entrepreneurship Programme to support SEPs in developing entrepreneurial skills and growing their portfolios for greater financial resilience.
Both initiatives will be available in the second half of this year.
These initiatives that I shared today ensure that we continue to have strong funding, talent and domestic support pipelines for the arts, which Ms Eileen Chong spoke about. As we support our artists and arts groups to thrive and express our cultural heritage, they serve as our ambassadors to the world.
Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh had asked about using cultural diplomacy to reinforce our Singapore identity. We will continue to support our practitioners to make their mark internationally and to showcase our Singapore identity beyond our shores. For instance, the Singapore Pavilion at the Osaka World Expo 2025 featured many local performing artists, including multicultural ensemble yINHarmony, acapella group The Island Voices and Bharathanatyam dancer Shruthi Nair, showcasing Singapore's rich cultural diversity to global visitors.
Mr Chairman, as we look ahead, Singapore must prepare to face new waves of challenges from a changing world. Strengthening our shared identity will enable us to overcome these challenges with confidence. We must renew our commitment to multiculturalism.
The arts have the unique power to deepen our distinctive brand of multiculturalism and build a more inclusive Singapore. We will continue to invest in and grow the arts landscape to amplify its positive impact.
The Chairman : Minister of State Dinesh Vasu Dash.
The Minister of State for Culture, Community and Youth (Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash) : Across Singapore, communities celebrate one another's cultures, from the multicultural floats at the Chingay parade to the annual iftar at Khadijah Mosque where I sat alongside religious leaders from the Inter-Religious Organisation (IRO) to break fast. This is a rare sight in today's world, where trust is in short supply and where multiculturalism is in retreat.
We have seen this in the years before Independence, during the hardships of the second World War and when communal tensions were high. Yet, even when the odds were stacked against us, our Pioneer religious leaders chose unity and harmony. Their commitment led to the formation of the IRO in 1949 to build trust and mutual respect between faiths.
This exemplifies Singapore's approach to social cohesion, one where people from different backgrounds make an active effort to appreciate each other's cultures and traditions.
The mission to build a strong, cohesive and caring society is an ongoing one. Let me speak on three areas that MCCY will be focusing on. First, to build strong communities with a shared cultural identity. Second, to deepen the understanding between communities and to expand our common spaces. Third, to architect an ecosystem of care and mutual help so as to uplift all communities.
Let me start with strong communities.
Singapore is a nation of migrants. Early generations brought languages, traditions and beliefs from their home countries. They provided mutual assistance as they settled in Singapore, forming associations and clans. Over time, new generations came of age and more took root here. While we have kept our racial and religious identities, our practices have evolved to become uniquely Singaporean.
It is important that we steward our cultural heritage so that future generations can understand who we are and where we come from. I hope this is useful, especially to our youths, including those from the East Coast Internship Programme, who are joining us here today in the gallery.
Assoc Prof Faishal spoke about the Malay Heritage Centre earlier and Senior Minister of State Low about enlivening our historic districts.
As the Prime Minister had mentioned during his Budget speech this year, MCCY and the Indian Heritage Centre (IHC) will launch renewed efforts to activate Little India as a vibrant cultural district to celebrate the Singapore Indian arts and culture. We will engage community and precinct stakeholders to co-create a long-term vision for IHC and to enhance cultural placemaking in Little India as a historic district.
This begins with a visioning exercise in 2026 to lay the foundation for a precinct-wide programming and activation effort. Our goal is to help Singaporeans and international visitors understand and appreciate Singaporean Indian cultures and customs.
Our efforts to build a strong Indian community will go beyond culture and heritage. Last year, Minister Shanmugam announced that Senior Minister of State Murali Pillai and myself will lead a new committee to take the Indian community forward.
Since then, we have engaged widely. More than 150 Singapore Indian organisations have shared their aspirations and ideas, particularly on how we could uplift members of our community together and to integrate more strongly as one united Indian community.
Taking in the feedback we have received, we will call this the Indian Engagement and Development Initiative, or INEI, which also means "to be linked or connected" in Tamil. This will be a committee by the community and for the community. Its aim is to build strong networks across the Indian community, bringing together partners who are already doing good work on the ground, including SINDA and Narpani.
INEI will start with three priorities. First, to improve socioeconomic outcomes for the Indian community, particularly the vulnerable and the disadvantaged. Second, to champion integration and unity among the Indian community in Singapore. Third, through the initiatives under INEI, we hope to create new avenues for our youths to contribute and to nurture the next generation of Indian community leaders.
I am glad to announce that together with the INEI Committee, we will establish an annual INEI forum to collectively discuss our aspirations and concerns. We will have the first dialogue in April 2026, with the theme of building a strong and united Indian community.
We will also configure sub-committees and I invite members of the community to step forward, share your perspectives and play an active role in shaping this important initiative. More details will be announced at the dialogue in April. Mr Chairman, please allow me to say a few words in Tamil.
( In Tamil ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] Last August, the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs Shanmugam announced a new committee. This committee, which is co-chaired by Senior Minister of State Murali and myself, will take the Indian community forward over the next five years.
Since the announcement, we have held discussions with members from various segments of our community. Participants shared their thoughts on the challenges faced by the Indian community. Their views were centred around the common themes of social cohesion and development.
We have named this committee INEI. This committee will take the excellent work being carried out by community organisations, including SINDA and Narpani, to the next level.
We also believe in developing skills among the next generation of leaders and identifying new talents.
In addition, I am pleased to announce that we will hold an annual forum to discuss matters important to our community. We plan to hold the first dialogue in April 2026. More details about the INEI committee will be shared then. I request members of the community to come forward and share their views.
( In English ): Let me now move to the second area of deepening understanding between communities and expanding our common spaces.
I spoke earlier about global uncertainties, and Singapore is not immune to these developments. Last September, the Al-Istiqamah Mosque received a parcel containing pork and an offensive note. In December, a false bomb threat was made against the St Joseph's Church.
Community leaders responded quickly. The Serangoon and Cashew Harmony Circles rallied neighbouring religious organisations to offer support and reassurance to the affected communities. Our apex religious organisations put out public statements of solidarity.
Their message to the public was clear – an attack on one community is an attack on all communities.
Our responses matter. Each incident is an opportunity to build up our reservoirs of trust so that we can stand united in troubled times. That is why we continue to invest in our Racial and Religious Harmony Circles.
Last year, more than 40 religious organisations partnered MCCY to co-organise inter-faith events and contributed to the Crisis Preparedness for Religious Organisations programme. During the Racial and Religious Harmony month alone, more than 100,000 participants took part in over 70 events nationwide. This included the first youth-led intercultural showcase called Kaleidoscope: Harmony in Motion.
This year, we will step up our efforts to engage religious organisations and build an even stronger inter-faith network in our neighbourhoods.
Mr Chairman, our ability to foster unity and inclusivity amidst diversity is Singapore's enduring competitive advantage to attract international businesses and talents here. But as I said earlier, our model of multiculturalism is unique and some newcomers may take more time to adapt to it. After all, integration is a two-way street, which will require locals to be receptive and newcomers to make the effort to understand our culture, values and norms.
The workplace is a natural space for this interaction to take place meaningfully. As mentioned by Acting Minister David Neo, the Alliance for Action (AfA) on the Integration of Foreign Professionals had conducted extensive engagements to develop practical solutions that industry partners can adopt to integrate foreign professionals at the workplace.
The AfA has put forward new upstream initiatives under two focus areas, which the Government strongly supports: first, to help new Employment Pass (EP) holders understand the living and working norms in Singapore; and second, to support firms to adopt inclusive workplace practices.
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In the coming months, the Government will roll out new orientation and onboarding programmes for our EP holders, with a focus on workplace and living norms. These will complement existing programmes for New Citizens and for our Permanent Residents.
The Singapore National Employers Federation and the Singapore Business Federation will also launch new resources for firms, including a Workplace Integration Playbook and a new cultural intelligence and sensitivity training course.
I am pleased to share that five trade associations and chambers have come onboard to roll out Orientation Day programmes for new EP holders, which will introduce them to our workplace norms and provide them with opportunities to network with their Singaporean counterparts. This will be scaled up to more trade associations and chambers over time.
Sir, I have spoken about building strong communities and deepening the bonds between them. The third area I will speak on is to architect an ecosystem of care that every community can tap on.
Our co-operatives (co-ops) are one of the oldest forms of community mutual help. They are defined not by identity, but by a common purpose. Since 1925, our co-ops have played a vital role to meet the evolving needs of our people.
Some may be familiar with credit co-ops, which provide thrift and loan services. There are also consumer and services co-ops, like the Silver Caregivers Co-operative, which provides community support for caregivers and equips them with skills, such as managing palliative care.
However, as Mr Sanjeev Kumar Tiwari had earlier noted, our co-ops are facing growing challenges to renew their talent pipeline and to attract young members in a more competitive landscape.
This is why MCCY announced the Co-op 10-year Transformation Roadmap in 2025. This Roadmap will nurture a forward-looking sector that is purposeful, professional and trusted. I am happy to share that MCCY will commit up to $30 million to support the co-op movement over the next 10 years. We will help co-ops stay relevant as they develop new capabilities to address emerging needs and transform for the future. Co-ops will receive support to invest in talent development, governance and operational efficiency.
As part of the Roadmap, MCCY and the Singapore National Co-operative Federation will jointly introduce the Co-operative Leaders Programme and Emerging Leaders Programme from this year, to develop the next generation of leaders. The Roadmap also includes the Community Outreach and Impact Programme, which will provide seed funding, incubation spaces and mentorship for our youths to pilot innovative ideas.
[Mr Speaker in the Chair]
As to Mr Tiwari's questions on allowing enterprises to form co-ops and reviewing the Central Co-op Fund contribution rates, MCCY will assess these further, in line with our objectives to sustain the relevance and competitiveness of the co-op sector.
In conclusion, Chairman, the formation of the Inter-Religious Organisation in 1949, was an experiment in trust, at a time when the idea of a formalised inter-faith dialogue was unheard of. Our forefathers were bold and visionary in setting the building blocks of a multicultural society that we enjoy today.
That same spirit must guide us as we strengthen these three areas of focus for MCCY that I had outlined: to build strong communities; to deepen understanding between communities; and to architect an ecosystem of care that uplifts all. However, this House cannot legislate social cohesion, nor can we mandate trust. But history and the example of the Inter-Religious Organisation shows us that if any society can achieve this and make it work, it has to be Singapore!
The Chairman : Senior Parliamentary Secretary Goh Hanyan.
The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth (Ms Goh Hanyan) : What would you do, if you were not afraid? I want to ask this of the young people who may be watching the COS today.
But it is also a question for all of us. If fear was not holding you back, what would you try?
For many young people today, fear does not come from the lack of ability. It comes from growing up in a world that is highly connected and where missteps and comparisons are amplified.
But fear is an integral part of life. Our responsibility is therefore to ensure that our young people are equipped to meet it.
And such courage does not happen in isolation. Courage grows when people feel supported, feel rooted and feel like they are part of something larger than themselves.
Across many societies, we are seeing signs of weakening relationships and commitments that once anchored people to their communities. Some observers describe this as a broad social drift towards detachment.
Ultimately, young people, like us all, want connection and purpose.
How can we empower our young people on their journey to find a sense of belonging, meaning and a sense of self, even as social bonds seemingly wane around the world?
To answer this question, we went to our young people directly. In fact, we collected over 350,000 responses from youths and stakeholders. We listened to your hopes, your dreams, your concerns. We heard you and we will bring your views to life through the SG Youth Plan, which will launch later this year. This will be a five-year action plan to empower you, our youths, to be the best version of yourself in Singapore.
Mr Alex Yam, Prof Kenneth Poon, Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim and other Members, advocated for the need to better engage our youths, to support them, and asked what more can we do. Like Members, MCCY strongly believes in this need.
What I will share today are some key areas we are developing under the SG Youth Plan to support different phases of a young person's life.
When we listened carefully, what came through clearly was this. Early on, young people want the confidence to try, to test themselves, to fall and to get back up. They understand that the world is full of uncertainty, but they do not want to be sheltered from these challenges. They want real experiences, in the real world, with real people.
As young people grow older, the questions shift to finding direction and meaning in work. And later still, many want to step forward, to contribute and shape the spaces and communities around them.
But it all begins with the same question: do I have the courage to try?
This is where play matters. Play is often misunderstood here in Singapore. It is not about leisure or being frivolous.
For young people, play is where you learn how to make mistakes, bounce back and how to do it with friends and family beside you. When my daughter learned to rollerblade, her first lesson was not how to go fast. It was how to fall safely. And she had the most fun when learning with her friends – fumbling, laughing and getting back up together, made it easier to keep going.
Today, young people are spending more time online, but many crave real-life connections. When you head outdoors, especially to new places with new people, you discover something important. You learn that pushing through tough moments is part of progress and that companionship makes all the difference.
This is why we will progressively scale up the MOE-Outward Bound Singapore Challenge (MOC) Programme to the entire Secondary 3 cohort by 2030. Last year, about 18,000 students went through the MOC. About 65% of the cohort.
In time, all 15-year-olds in Singapore will get to experience OBS at least once in their lives. Each OBS watch comprises 12 students from different schools. Strangers who will embark on the outdoors for five days. Through these shared experiences, they will learn life skills, gain confidence in tackling the unknown and make lasting friendships.
Like Ms Valerie Lee, I am sure OBS has left a lasting impact on some in this Chamber. In fact, I was in the same watch as Valerie when we were 15. We went away sunburnt with legs full of sandfly bites, but the core memories stayed with us even till today.
The expansion of the MOC is made possible by the new OBS Coney campus. I am glad to update that the campus will open its doors later this year.
Picture this, teams of four students working together on advanced rope challenges instead of just pairs today. These expanded team activities will push more young people to rely on each other, building stronger bonds and greater resilience. What is particularly meaningful is that some of these challenges, including high elements, will be wheelchair-accessible – this ensures that no student is left behind when acquiring and building these crucial life skills.
As Mr Darryl David reminded us, OBS was set up in 1967 by Dr Goh Keng Swee "to develop mentally and physically rugged youths to be active citizens inspired to serve the community." The words "rugged" and "active citizens" capture the evergreen spirit of Singapore. Our eternal way of being, so that our nation endures.
But the need has clearly changed. In 1967, we needed ruggedness as we struggled for nationhood. Today, we need resilience to navigate an uncertain world and maintain a strong sense of identity and belonging as one people, one nation.
Mr Darryl David and Ms Valerie Lee asked about extending OBS to all ages and expanding the OBS overseas programmes. I thank them for these are valuable suggestions. Yet with finite resources, our priority must be to get the MOC scale-up right for our students first, before we consider other areas.
Ms Valerie Lee also talked about supporting the Outdoor Adventure Education sector. We have been doing so through the Outdoor Adventure Education Council, which was formed in 2022 to uplift the sector. The Council brings partners together to establish national standards and exchange best practices across the sector.
Beyond organised activities, such as OBS, friendships form in ordinary moments of just being together. Many young people feel that as years pass, there are fewer physical places where this can happen naturally.
Dr Charlene Chen, Ms Elysa Chen and Ms Eileen Chong therefore asked about creating more spaces for our youths.
We are developing the Somerset Belt as a youth precinct. Somerset Belt is the area around Somerset MRT Station, comprising *SCAPE, the Somerset Youth Park and Skate Park.
We received over 16,500 responses on what youths and others hope to see. Our youths also worked alongside architects and planners on the design and programmes of Somerset Belt. We aim to start construction work later this year.
Meanwhile, exciting programmes and activities are already happening at the Belt. We relaunched *SCAPE last November and it is now a hive of activities centred on youth interests – anime, dance, art, tabletop games, music, the list goes on.
I was at *SCAPE on a Friday evening and spoke to some of the young people hanging out there. I asked what *SCAPE meant to them. This is what they told me, "It is a sandbox where I could quickly test my event concept." "Separately, in other places, we might get stares. But here, there is no judgement." "This is a place to just be. It gives us the time and space to pursue our ideas and passion."
There was a palpable sense of hope and energy. And we are only four months into the relaunch.
*SCAPE is just the start. We want to bring this movement closer to where our young people live. We will create more welcoming, open spaces across Singapore, where you can gather freely and form friendships.
We will share more details at the launch of the SG Youth Plan.
As young people move into the next stage in life, the questions change. For students coming out of school, the next step is entering the workforce. Am I on the right path? Will I be employable?
Over the past days, many in this Chamber have highlighted youth anxieties about work, especially in the face of AI. Indeed, it is daunting finding work now when you can barely imagine what jobs will exist tomorrow, let alone plan a career. Yet we cannot block these advances. What matters then, is building the skills to thrive with technology.
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Our Ministries are working hard at this, as shared by my colleagues over the past few days. For example, our Institutes of Higher Learning will enhance their AI curriculum, while emphasising soft skills that will complement the use of AI. For working youths, we will support them in learning AI-related skills, such as providing free access to premium AI tools, for those who take up selected AI training courses.
Fundamentally, the real power lies in how our young people choose to engage in these tools.
Your generation – the digital- or even the AI-native generation – knows how to use these tools instinctively. As much as it has the potential to replace some junior-level tasks, it can equip you with the power to compress traditional learning curves. Your generation will teach us many things about AI and its possibilities. But we are also here for you with our experiences and memories of navigating change. We need to tap on each other's strengths.
This shared learning is precisely what young people have told us matters. Someone walking alongside them. Someone to help them make sense of all this uncertainty and find their inner strength. Someone to remind them that life does not follow a straight line, but there always are ways to find solid ground beneath your feet.
This is why we will grow mentorship opportunities so that our youths will have someone to journey with them through the big and small "leaps" in life.
Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim would be glad to know that since 2022, we have created over 20,000 mentoring opportunities through the Mentoring SG movement.
We know that finding a mentor is not easy when there is so much to keep up with in life. As such, we want to lower the barriers and make professional connections more accessible for you.
We are bringing mentorships directly to schools, where you are. We recently partnered three polytechnics to create mentoring programmes under Mentoring SG. By 2030, these programmes will serve up to 11,000 students annually. More partnerships are on the way.
Just imagine if we all step up to contribute our experience, lend a listening ear and journey together with our young people through their life transitions. This is the culture that we can only create if we set aside time for our young people. This is what we want to do under Mentoring SG.
After navigating the next "leap" in life, something shifts yet again for many young people. They do not just ask, "What should I do?", but also start asking, "What can I change?"
Young people told us clearly that being heard is not the same as being trusted. Real responsibility and agency build confidence. Prof Kenneth Poon and Dr Charlene Chen as well as Ms Elysa Chen asked about how we are supporting youth participation to create a sense of belonging.
We have been creating many such opportunities.
Take the NYC's Young ChangeMakers Grant. This seed funding programme puts youths in charge from start to finish. Young people do not just receive funding and mentorship; they are fully responsible for evaluating each other's proposals and giving advice. For impactful proposals, we are prepared to support them further.
There are different programmes that youths can access, such as the National Youth Fund and the new SG Partnerships Fund that Senior Minister of State Low just touched on. In his Budget speech, the Prime Minister also mentioned the Youth Panels.
Youth Panels work differently but with the same spirit – young people partner directly with Government agencies to shape policies they care about. In the first run, 120 youths rolled up their sleeves to tackle topics, like financial resilience and environmental sustainability. The next run of the Youth Panels launches later this year. We will share more details when ready.
We want to create even more opportunities for young people to contribute.
I am glad to announce that we will form the Somerset Belt Youth CoLab, a group of 15 youths who will drive, own and lead the spaces and activities within the Somerset Belt. The CoLab will take control of the Somerset Belt's programming and activities. They will decide which spaces serve what purpose. Simply put, they will create the vibe that defines the Somerset Belt.
When I spoke to some members, they were clear about what they needed the most – space, funding and agency to make their vision happen. We are therefore backing the CoLab with a dedicated space to activate and a $300,000 annual budget to bring their ideas to life across Somerset Belt. This way, youths can transform Somerset Belt into a place that is truly, boldly theirs.
Let us envision a space that breathes with youthful life – a place they have built and filled with their energy. We are putting our belief in our young people into action – real investment, real decisions, real responsibility.
This is us saying: we trust you to lead; show us the way. Now, that is what ownership looks like. Mr Chairman, please let me say a few lines in Mandarin.
( In Mandarin ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] The Government places great importance on youth development. They are the future leaders of our nation and our country's hope.
We sometimes inadvertently compare youth with the previous generation. However, each generation of Singaporeans faces their own challenges.
Our current generation of youth has their aspirations and possesses a strong sense of social mission. This is their strength. Rather than comparing them with the previous generation, we should give them space to express themselves freely, find their own path and discover their own strengths. We should also give them opportunities to develop interpersonal skills through play or to grow from failure.
Over the next year, the Government will collaborate with various partners to develop a five-year SG Youth Plan aimed at nurturing a generation that is ambitious, resilient and has a strong sense of national belonging. We welcome suggestions from all sectors of the society and encourage active participation from all.
( In English ): Mr Chairman, growing up is not a straight line. It begins with learning you are tougher than you think. It continues with you finding your way without losing who you are. And it grows into stepping forward to shape what comes next.
As I shared at the beginning of my speech, around the world, many societies are grappling with weakening bonds. But will that be our future? Surely, we must do all we can to avoid that.
If we put the right pieces in place, can we move in the right direction? Can we build a generation that feels deeply connected to society? A generation that feels that Singapore is theirs and that they are Singapore's? The SG Youth Plan will be our commitment to build that generation of young people who are confident to try, connected to one another and ready to contribute.
We will keep listening. We will keep building the right support around you. And we will keep creating spaces for you to lead. [ Applause. ]
The Chairman : We have some time for clarifications. We were not able to finish off the clarifications for Acting Minister Faishal. So, I am going to do that first and I will have a hard stop at 6.00 pm. Then, we will have clarifications for the rest of the political officeholders' for MCCY. Dr Hamid Razak.
Dr Hamid Razak : Thank you, Chairman. I would like to clarify with the Acting Minister. On the ground, I have interacted with many of the MMOs and IMOs who are keen to tackle some of the issues within the Malay/Muslim community. I really welcome the idea of a M 3 + network. I would like to ask how that will look like on the ground, how it will be operationalised and what are the opportunities and resources that will be available for our MMOs and IMOs who are keen to contribute to tackling some of these problems in the community?
Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim : Sir, I thank the Member for the supplementary question.
I am happy to share with him that in the last few months, many of the MMOs have come forward. They have, in fact, organised among themselves to see how they can work together and collaborate with the M 3 agencies. On the other hand, the M 3 agencies are also looking at the ways where they can work better.
As I shared in my speech, we have some collaborations especially in some of the areas. In fact, with M 3 +, it signifies a greater emphasis on more intentional collaborations between the M 3 agencies and the MMOs, IMOs and informal groups.
So, we have the M 3 Focus Areas, five Focus Areas. Among the areas, we look at how to strengthen marriages, youth development, healthcare and supporting workers. We will see how in some of these areas, where the MMOs, IMOs and as well as informal groups can play a part.
I give the Member an example. We have the Malay/Muslim Organisations Rehabilitation Network, where we see many of the MMOs and IMOs coming together to support. This is an example of how we can make M 3 + a reality. Depending on the areas or topics that we will be looking at, there will be opportunities to do so.
Another one will be the M 3 @Towns, where every town which has a M 3 will be able to work with the MMOs, IMOs and most other informal groups. So, we want to see how we can navigate this together. We will discuss further during the networking session. I look forward to significant enhancement in collaborations between the M 3 agencies and the MMOs, IMOs and informal groups.
The Chairman : Mr Fadli Fawzi.
Mr Fadli Fawzi : Thank you, Chair. I have two questions for Minister Faishal. The first is, can the Minister share the specific ratio of mosques to Muslim residents that have been used in the mosque construction planning? Secondly, does MUIS have any plans to evacuate madrasah students who are studying in the Middle East and currently stuck there?
Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim : I thank the Member for the supplementary questions.
Our priority is ensuring that there are sufficient prayer spaces for all Muslims in Singapore. So, simply using a ratio of Muslim population to mosques is insufficient as worship patterns, resident concentrations and mosque sizes vary across Singapore. Instead, MUIS monitors worship patterns closely on the ground. Including me, we go on the ground, we feel what it is like and introduce measures to address the demand and increase the capacity. This includes multiple prayer sessions and expanding or upgrading current mosques.
So, where there are shortages, we will make some adjustment and see whether there are opportunities to do so. As I mentioned in my speech, if there are changes to the population patterns or a new housing estate coming up, we will explore building new mosques like what we are doing in Tampines and Tengah.
For the Member's second question, I have actually answered the supplementary question. We work closely with MFA and we also listen on the ground. Yesterday, when I spoke to the students, I shared with them, anything that you know, please let us know, because they are there and they may know more information and, I would say, more accurate information than us. When I told them, they felt so happy that we are very serious to know what is happening there and they feel that we really care for them.
So, I assure the Member that while the situation is uncertain, we will do our best to look after our people.
The Chairman : Mr Azhar Othman.
5.45 pm
Mr Azhar Othman : Thank you, Chairman. Allow me to address my question in Malay.
( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] We know that AI is going to penetrate every aspect of knowledge, learning and work. I have two questions for the Acting Minister. First, do the courses at the SCIS include subjects like AI to stay relevant with the times? Second, I hope madrasahs throughout Singapore will also receive Government support so they can learn about and get exposure to AI.
Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim : ( In Malay ) : [ Please refer to Vernacular Speech .] I wish to thank Mr Azhar for asking the questions. It is a good suggestion. AI is a national initiative. So, SCIS and our madrasahs will sustain it so that we can benefit from AI and look at how students will not only benefit from it, but also deepen their understanding in their learning process.
So, I will bring this suggestion back to MUIS and share it with the madrasahs because this is an important platform and we will look at how we can provide development opportunities for our students so that they remain relevant, regardless of what discipline they pursue.
The Chairman : I believe we have covered all clarifications for Muslim Affairs. I will move to MCCY now. Mr Alex Yam.
Mr Alex Yam : Thank you, Chairman. For the Minister, on the consolidation under SpexSG, I might have missed it but could the Minister share the expected timeline for the new structure to be fully operational so that we can quickly address the myriad of needs that our Team Singapore athletes have on their life journey.
The second question is for Minister of State Dinesh. He earlier spoke about the importance of unity and togetherness. We see a lot of collaboration at the apex leadership level for our ethnic and religious communities. But does the Ministry have an assessment of how much of this permeates down to the level of congregants and community members. What more can we do in this area?
Lastly, for Senior Parliamentary Secretary Goh, she mentioned the youth panels and the partnering with Government agencies to allow youths to shape policy. Could she elaborate on how the Ministry will be ensuring that these ideas from the panels are meaningfully introduced and go towards influencing policy outcomes?
One last one. Overarching all of that, a lot of announcements today, a lot of emphasis on building a "we first" society, but could I also ask the Ministry how would we measure success beyond participation in all that we have announced? How do we assess that social trust has been enhanced?
Mr David Neo : Sir, I thank the Member for his clarifications. From 1 April, the company limited by guarantee called SpexSG will be in effect. Because the entities are currently present, we anticipate it will take some time for them to come together. To be fair, a lot of the things that I said we will be doing are already work-in-progress. It is things that have already been going on. But we do expect to take the better of the next year or two before we can fully reap a lot of the benefits of the consolidation that I talked about earlier.
Mr Dinesh Vasu Dash : I thank the Member for his question. Indeed, the level of integration and the discussions that happen at the Harmony Circle pretty much sometimes depend on the type of religious institutions that might be available at the particular constituency. But we have been trying to expand that to include exchanges across different constituencies as well. And we constantly review how we want to advance and strengthen the Harmony Circles that we have. In fact, we are reviewing what else we can do and how best we can then allow for the integration to take place.
Understandably, there is some degree of variation among the various constituencies. Some are a lot more integrated, they have a lot more programmes than others. But what we are trying to do is to allow for an even balance across all.
Ms Goh Hanyan : On the Youth Panels, I agree that it is very important for it to be brought to fruition and to show up in policy. MCCY and NYC manage this very closely to ensure that the recommendations are then put through the policy pipeline.
For example, one of the topics was called #LifeHacks, but essentially, it was about financial resilience. This led to an idea of having a youth-centric guide that consolidates financial information for youths. MCCY is working closely with the relevant agencies to bring it to pass.
I also wanted to highlight that apart from looking at policy outcomes, what we also want to improve was the experience of the youths. What they said as well was that they appreciated the interaction, but they also wanted to have some skills to help them with policy-making. So, that is what we will do in the next run – to equip them with policy-making skills so they can better appreciate the process.
The Chairman : Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh.
Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh : Thank you, Chair. I just have three quick questions.
First, on programmes to support career transitions for athletes. While I understand that these services are available while they are carded, could MCCY consider extending these services beyond their carding window since many athletes may only fully utilise them after their competitive careers end. Perhaps setting up a Team Singapore alumni type of association.
Second, I applaud the initiative for MOE to work together with NSAs introduce new sports for the National School Games. Related to that, could MCCY facilitate closer coordination between the NSAs and MOE on DSA criteria so that school pathways are better aligned with long-term athlete development frameworks.
My final question has to do with the SG Partnerships Fund. It was mentioned that for the Sprout tier, there is a 20% co-funding requirement. I was wondering if the Minister could elaborate on whether donations would qualify for the 250% tax deduction or whether this could be funded through earned revenue, whether there is flexibility in how this contribution could be structured and whether MCCY could provide support to help organisations or to help these initiatives secure these funds, particularly in the area of fundraising and partnership development.
Mr David Neo : Sir, I will address the first two clarifications and Senior Minister of State Low will address the third one.
On the first question about Athlete Life Management beyond carding, Sir, it has always been our approach that we will meet our athletes where they are. It is our commitment to support our Team Singapore athletes as best as we can. In instances where they require athlete life services or other services after they cease being carded, it is not a problem. They can just step forward. It is a tight community, we all know each other and we will be happy to support them.
On the second question about the DSA criteria, whether MCCY can help the NSAs work more closely with MOE – when I meet up with all the NSA presidents and vice presidents, my commitment to all the NSAs is that MCCY will be the Government conduit. We will help them navigate any and all difficulties or issues that they encounter with any Government agency. That is our commitment to the NSAs. When it comes to specifically DSA with MOE, likewise, we will do that for them as well.
Ms Low Yen Ling : Thank you, Chairman. Very quickly, I just want to respond to the third clarification from Assoc Prof Kenneth Goh with regards to the 20% co-funding.
Sir, to recap, the 80% co-funding is for the Sprout tier and the Scale tier. For the Sprout tier, it is $50,000 over two years, and for the Scale tier, it is $1 million over three years.
Allow me to assure him that the 20% to be co-funded does not have to be done upfront. And the source of funding that he mentioned, whether is it donation or earned revenue, they are allowable.
As for the tax rebate, it depends on which is the organisation that is leading the project and whether this organisation has an IPC status.
On the last part of the question, he asked whether is there any fundraising support and so on. The Singapore Government Partnerships Office stands ready to support and work with the sector partners as well as applicants to realise their project. We will support them in boosting their capabilities in operations as well as fundraising.
I am happy to also update him that after the evaluation of project, in fact, upon approval of the project, up to 40% of the grant will be dispersed. I think that goes some way to supporting them in realising the project.
The Chairman : Ms Elysa Chen.
Ms Elysa Chen : Thank you, Chairman. I wanted to ask MCCY, given the encouraging utilisation of the SG Culture Pass and the good outcomes that we have achieved thus far, whether the Ministry has considered extending the SG Culture Pass to every child rather than limiting eligibility to those aged 18 and above, given that early exposure to the arts and heritage can play an important role in shaping cultural appreciation and developing creativity.
I also wanted to check if there are plans to introduce a youth or family component to the SG Culture Pass so that parents can utilise it together with their children for arts, heritage and cultural activities.
My next clarification. I am also very glad to hear that every 15-year-old will now be able to experience the OBS programme. I wanted to ask whether we can consider extending it to the cohorts who were affected by COVID-19.
Mr Baey Yam Keng : On the use of the Culture Pass, right now, we have set it at age 18 and above. I think it is also to respect that the individual has to exercise their own decision to purchase things, whether books or any other cultural offerings.
As for the younger Singaporeans, they are also supported for their consumption of arts offerings in schools, because under 18, most of them will be in our education institutions. As shared, there are various arts programming that we are working with MOE, with the arts ecosystem to provide these offerings. And a lot of these are heavily subsidised or even free of charge to help us develop a generation of Singaporeans who are exposed to and can appreciate the arts.
So, the Culture Pass is for those who are much older. As I said, it is just about half a year that we have launched the Culture Pass. We will look at how it is utilised. We will definitely look at ways to further enhance this or to make it more accessible to Singaporeans.
The Chairman : Mr Jackson Lam. I am sorry, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Goh first.
Ms Goh Hanyan : Thank you, Chairman. I appreciate the Member's consideration and concern for the cohorts affected by COVID-19. As I mentioned in my main speech, our priority for OBS is the MOE-OBS Challenge scale-up for Secondary 3 students up to 2030. That will be our priority – to get it right, to make sure we do it well.
Further, if you look back at the cohorts impacted by COVID-19, we also recognise that many of them are at different phases of life. They may be in very different places – National Service, working, so on and so forth. So, bringing them back together again for a common single experience would be a lot more operationally challenging.
The Chairman : Mr Jackson Lam.
Mr Jackson Lam : I would like to ask the Minister, will the shared services by SportSG have sufficient capacity to meet the needs of all NSAs? Second, if the demand exceeds capacity, what framework will SportSG use to prioritise requests?
Mr David Neo : Sir, I thank the Member for his questions. In sizing up the support for the NSAs, we work quite closely with all the NSAs to understand what their needs and requests are. It is our assessment that we should be okay.
Our approach to supporting the NSAs is always one whereby we want to make the NSAs better. A lot of the initiatives that I mentioned in my speech, about seconding people to the NSAs and all that, it is about building up their capability.
Beyond that, we also get our NSAs to work together, to share best practices. For example, one of our NSAs has had good success in digitalising their operations and we are getting them to share that across the NSAs. So, the approach really is about making them better and also working very closely to understand their demands. My assessment is that we should have enough resources to support them.
6.00 pm
The Chairman : Assoc Prof Jamus Lim.
Assoc Prof Jamus Jerome Lim : Sir, I appreciate the referral by the Minister to the Parliamentary Question filed by Member David Hoe in November last year on considerations that HDB makes on multi-storey car park repurposing. I am also keenly aware of the noise considerations that are associated with pickleball play in the multi-storey car park. That is why in my cut, I had actually taken pains to explain why noise disamenities could be mitigated with sound curtains and the presence of a ceiling. So, I am wondering if the Minister has a response to whether such mitigation mechanisms are indeed infeasible and, if not, then perhaps we can get some reassurance by HDB that we will indeed be able to proceed with such repurposing requests? I understand that this is actually an infrastructure matter that may be better directed to the Minister for National Development, and I had originally filed my cut for MND, but was redirected, and hence, I am directing it to the Minister.
Mr David Neo : Sir, I thank the Member for his clarification. Well, like SportSG, I think we adopt a very practical lens to this. So, as I said in my speech, it comes down to whether the location is suitable, meets the specifications. If it comes to having to do a lot of mitigation just to make it work, then we have to ask ourselves whether this is the best use of Government funds. So, I think that will be it.
The Chairman : Mr Andre Low.
Mr Low Wu Yang Andre : Thank you, Chairman. My clarification is to the Acting Minister. I thank him for his comprehensive overview of the measures we are taking to help our elderly Singaporeans combat ageing-related frailty.
There was also another thrust to my cut, which is about making strength training more accessible to Singaporeans at large, and I wonder if the Minister has a response to my suggestion to leverage our existing fitness corners as a means of providing easy access to strength training for the rest of Singaporeans.
Mr David Neo : Sir, I thank the Member for his clarification. I was under the impression that his original suggestion was meant for seniors, which is why the reply was that actually, for seniors, they require quite different machines. They require machines that ideally have pneumatic weights so that they can be increased at small increments, as opposed to the standard kind of weight machines that we have, and therefore, the HUR machines that are available at the majority of our Senior Care Centres.
When it comes to general weight training for Singaporeans, with SportSG as well as the private gym landscape in Singapore taken together, I think Singaporeans have a lot of different possibilities and accesses to whether it is gym weight machines or otherwise. To the specific suggestion about weight machines and our constituencies as well as HDB fitness corners and all that, that is something that we have provision for in some areas. It is also something we are looking at. For example, there is a trial in Woodlands, if I am not wrong, where we are also looking at adjustable weights for outdoor machines. These are all things we are looking at and when we have sufficient data and confidence that some of these things work well in an outdoor setting, we will proceed to roll them out.
The Chairman : Mr Mark Lee.
Mr Mark Lee : Thank you, Chairman. The Acting Minister has mentioned about the IPS survey and the survey actually indicates that younger Singaporeans are more likely to report feelings of social isolation, and more than half say that they find it easier to interact online than face-to-face. But at the same time, museums around the world are evolving beyond quiet exhibition spaces into social venues, hosting after-hours programmes that combine arts, music and interactive activities to attract younger audiences. So, I would like to ask the Minister whether MCCY and NHB would consider piloting museum-after-dark programmes designed for young adults, perhaps working with the NYC to design formats that resonate with how young people socialise today?
Mr David Neo : Sir, I thank the Member for his clarification. Well, we will certainly be very keen to study as well as pilot possible programmes after dark, whether it is in our museums or otherwise, and certainly NYC will have a big role to play in this. I also want to assure the Member that this is something that we are continually looking at. So, instead of after dark, NYC has also done programmes overnight. They have brought youths to stay overnight at the National Museum of Singapore, the National Gallery of Singapore and Changi Airport. So, the short answer is yes, we are open to studying and considering it, especially in the context that we have an existential problem, maybe this will help bring up our total fertility rate.
The Chairman : Mr Cai Yinzhou. Although you did not file a cut, you can ask your clarification.
Mr Cai Yinzhou (Bishan-Toa Payoh) : Thank you, Chairman. I am still a youth, so, thank you. First, I would like to declare my interest as the executive director for Chinatown Heritage Centre. I understand that MCCY is developing placemaking initiatives in the locale of Kampong Gelam and Little India, with the hopes to activate spaces and support heritage businesses.
I would like to highlight that Chinatown should also be considered appropriately a historic district with culturally rich, including SG Heritage Business Scheme awardees like, Say Tian Hng Buddha Shop, which started in 1896; and Pek Sin Choon which celebrates its 101 years this year. I would also like to ask if the Ministry will therefore consider expanding the coordination and support to Chinatown?
My second supplementary question is for Senior Parliamentary Secretary Goh. Will the MOE-OBS Challenge Programme be implemented only in OBS campsites? I ask this because there are other campsites, like Changi Coast, Dairy Farm and Jalan Bahtera. So, I am wondering if those other campsites will be utilised and whether OBS will be the only operator for the MOE-OBS Challenge, or will there be other private outdoor adventure companies be operating it as well?
Ms Low Yen Ling : I want to thank Member Cai Yinzhou for the clarification. As far as his historic district is concerned, I want to assure him that the new Place-making Project Office that comes under the Inter-agency Task Force does indeed not only serve Kampong Gelam, Little India, but also Chinatown. In fact, the team is not confined only to MCCY and NHB, but also work across the whole-of-Government, including the economic agencies under the Ministry of Trade and Industry, for example, Enterprise Singapore and STB, to come together to support the businesses in the historic districts to strengthen their capabilities in placemaking. One, to design to implement and to scale up the placemaking so that we can boost their vibrancy as well as to drive footfall to the three historic districts, including Chinatown, and we are working very closely with the Chinatown Business Association on that.
Ms Goh Hanyan : To the Member's questions on sites for the MOE-OBS Challenge, yes, it will primarily be OBS' sites, so, they will be Pulau Ubin and also the Coney Island campus that will be coming up. Also, we want to highlight that the programme is also expeditionary in nature, so there will be certain locations that make use of nature and surroundings. It will be beyond those two campuses.
In terms of the operators, OBS will be the main operator, or the only operator for MOC. There are other operators out there that conduct camps, but these would be more for school-run specific camps.
The Chairman : As there are no further clarifications, can I invite Mr Alex Yam if you would like to withdraw your amendment?
6.08 pm
Mr Alex Yam : Thank you, Chairman, 41 questions and 330 minutes later, I certainly think the Ministry deserves the $100 back. So, I seek leave to withdraw my amendment.
[(proc text) Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. (proc text)]
[(proc text) The sum of $2,407,711,100 for Head X ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates. (proc text)]
[(proc text) The sum of $677,912,500 for Head X ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates. (proc text)]