Mdm Heng asked why the adoption of 'challenging kids' - those aged three and above with either health problems like diabetes and autism or from problem families - is restricted to childless couples of age 40 and above.

The Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports does not impose an age restriction as Mdm Heng has described. However, the Adoption of Children Act provides that anyone applying to adopt a child has to be aged 25 years or above, and there has to be an age gap of at least 21 years between the adopter and the child to be adopted.

These basic requirements aim to ensure that adopters are psychologically and emotionally prepared to cope with the demands of parenting an adopted child.

Mdm Heng suggested that we conduct focus-group discussions to review and improve our adoption system. The ministry regularly reviews the policies and processes for adoption. We will take her feedback into consideration when we do so.

Mdm Heng may want to contact Mr Aidan Koh, Manager, Adoption Services, on 6354-8030 for more information. We thank her for her feedback.

Lee Kim Hua
Director
Family Services Division
for Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports