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Recap: WP and Chee Hong Tat clash over laws to retroactively validate fees charged by MND’s agencies

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New laws governing the media industry, the impact of energy costs on jobs and screening of massage licences were discussed earlier.

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Ng Wei Kai, Laura Chia, Ang Qing, Gabrielle Chan

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Published: May 5, 2026

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Read more at straitstimes.com.","ogDescription","jsonLd","{\"@context\":\"https:\\/\\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"LiveBlogPosting\",\"@id\":\"https:\\/\\/www.straitstimes.com\\/live-singapore-parliament-may-2026\",\"headline\":\"Parliament Day 3 (May 2026)\",\"description\":\"\",\"coverageStartTime\":\"2026-05-07T10:00:00+08:00\",\"coverageEndTime\":\"2026-05-07T23:30:00+08:00\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"url\":\"https:\\/\\/www.straitstimes.com\\/assets\\/ST-logo-default-aoeSLh4S.png\",\"width\":\"1228\",\"height\":\"96\"}},\"liveBlogUpdate\":[{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"David Hoe proposes \\u2018curiosity credits\\u2019 for students to sample tertiary courses and avoid \\u2018pathway regret\\u2019\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T20:30:09+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T21:05:54+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Mr David Hoe (Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC) is proposing a \\u201ccuriosity credits\\u201d system to give secondary school students hands-on exposure to tertiary courses before they commit to a path.In an adjournment motion wrapping up the last day of this Parliament sitting, Mr Hoe says many 16-year-olds currently make life-altering decisions \\u2013 such as choosing between junior college, polytechnic or ITE \\u2013 with insufficient information. This often leads to academic struggle, mismatch in skills and work, and eventual underemployment, he says.\\u201cWe can do better to help our youth make better decisions through better exposure,\\u201d says Mr Hoe. He wants to focus on closing the exposure gap, particularly for those who lack professional networks or are from less-resourced families. The key features of Mr Hoe\\u2019s proposal include taster sessions for students, who should attend six to eight of these experiences across different industry clusters by Secondary 4.A nursing taster, for example, would show the discipline of clinical care, while an engineering taster would highlight the level of mathematics required, preventing students from being blindsided by course demands, Mr Hoe says. Exposure is important for students before choices are made, he says, adding that some students who do not know what to study may receive default advice to \\u201cjust go to JC first\\u201d \\u2013 but this can be detrimental if the student is not suited for a purely academic curriculum. \\u201cThe student may struggle, or will struggle, to obtain the grades needed for university, and may emerge with fewer options than expected,\\u201d Mr Hoe says. \\u201cThe same applies to all pathways. The issue is not whether JC, polytechnic or ITE is better. The issue is fit.\\u201dWith the hands-on experience they would obtain with the credits, students can be better guided by career counsellors, he adds. \\u201cWe certainly cannot determine every outcome of young Singaporeans,\\u201d Mr Hoe says. \\u201cBut I believe we can do more to ensure that every young Singaporean has relevant information, meaningful exposure and a fair chance to make better decisions.\\u201d\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Not having the \\u2018perfect fit\\u2019 at 16 does not mean it is too late: Syed Harun\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T20:34:14+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T21:04:43+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The Education Ministry is open to ideas like Mr Hoe\\u2019s that bolster student guidance, says Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Education Syed Harun Alhabsyi.But finding a \\u201cperfect fit\\u201d at age 16 is not the only requirement for a successful life, he says in response to Mr Hoe\\u2019s \\u201ccuriosity credits\\u201d proposal.\\u201cNot everyone must have everything figured out in secondary school to succeed in life,\\u201d he says.\\u201cWhat might look like a suitable pathway at 16 may look very different just several years later.\\u201dDr Syed Harun outlines how MOE currently helps students through education and career guidance programmes, career fairs and flexible entry pathways to polytechnics, where students can choose a broad cluster before committing to a specific diploma. ITE and polytechnics also already offer three-day applied learning modules across six clusters, such as engineering and hospitality, he adds. These provide students with \\u201cauthentic and immersive hands-on learning experiences that help them discover their interests and strengths, and make informed education and career choices\\u201d.Schools work with industry partners through the Applied Learning Programme, organise learning journeys for secondary school students and collaborate with community mentors for those in ITE and polytechnic, Dr Syed Harun says. These help students connect classroom learning to real-world careers. For students from disadvantaged backgrounds, programmes like Pathfinder Plus and the Opportunity Fund ensure that they can access enrichment workshops, job tasters and leadership camps regardless of their financial situation.Dr Syed Harun says that the education system is designed to be responsive at all life stages. \\u201cFinding the right post-secondary path does not have to happen all at once, or perfectly, on the first try.\\u201d\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"gabchan\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Parliament is done for the day!\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T20:54:25+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T21:03:17+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"This has been a busy stretch of Parliament sittings. We saw the House affirm one motion and pass six Bills.Here\\u2019s a recap of today\\u2019s highlights:WP opposes a Bill for the first time this term: WP MPs clashed with National Development Minister Chee Hong Tat and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Syed Harun Alhabsyi over the legality of fees collected by MND\\u2019s agencies over the years. The ministry had proposed legislation that would retroactively validate fees that four of its agencies \\u2013 such as the Housing Development Board and National Parks Board \\u2013 had been collecting. It was following advice from the Attorney-General\\u2019s Chambers to prescribe these powers into legislation, as these fees were not just administrative, but were also part of the agency\\u2019s functions. Mr Chee said the fees were \\u201cnot inappropriately or wrongly collected\\u201d. The opposition MPs repeatedly asked if the fees were \\u201cillegally collected\\u201d and eventually recorded their dissent to the Bill, which included other legislative changes such as a raise in penalties for feeding wildlife. The Bill was passed.Three other Bills are passed: The House also passed laws that will broaden the scope of IMDA\\u2019s authority over ownership in the media sector, and will require the regulator\\u2019s approval if anyone seeks to acquire more than 30 per cent of any such company. It also approved laws that would streamline processes for firms to list on more than one stock exchange, and to allow the automatic transfer of Singtel shares from a special CPF investment scheme to individual shareholders\\u2019 investment accounts.There\\u2019s a lot to Unpack from this week\\u2019s sitting. We\\u2019ll be analysing what happened in our (free) weekly politics newsletter, which we send out every Monday. Subscribe here.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Wildlife feeding could be a loneliness issue, say MPs who ask for more social support\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T15:32:24+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T20:54:02+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Several MPs note that wildlife feeding could be linked to senior loneliness, and call for the Government to address the issue at its root.Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim (East Coast GRC) says she knows of several senior citizens who were fined for feeding pigeons, with one senior even building a bird bath at his kitchen ledge so birds could have a drink on hot days.She says: \\u201cSo (the) awareness is still lacking, and education is key. Many feeders were acting out of habit or compassion \\u2013 mostly seniors or persons with cognitive impairment.\\u201dShe asks that the Government consider ramping up efforts to refer cases involving the elderly or cognitively impaired people to social services agencies for support. Such intervention measures could include frequent home visits, counselling, finding other activities or interaction with family members or volunteers, so that the offenders would feel less socially isolated.Ms Elysa Chen (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC) says a recalcitrant bird feeder told enforcement officers from the National Environment Agency that he continued to feed birds because his wife had appeared in a dream and told him to do so.WP MP Abdul Muhaimin Abdul Malik (Sengkang GRC) says he welcomes the stronger stance on wildlife feeding, but asks that the ministry address the deeper social dimension of the behaviour, which could be linked to social isolation.He asks that the ministry consider strengthening partnerships with social services agencies to engage residents, in particular isolated seniors, on the consequences of wildlife feeding and to connect them with more meaningful social activities.The increased penalties should be paired with an uplift in enforcement efforts, he adds.PHOTO: ST FILE \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"laura\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"No plans to extend SDS scheme as S\\u2019poreans are now more familiar with shareholding, says Dinesh Vasu Dash\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T20:29:25+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T20:35:29+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Returning to wrap up the debate, Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash says there are no plans to extend the SDS scheme, as Singaporeans have become more familiar with shareholding and do not need such an entry point anymore. He is responding to several MPs, including WP\\u2019s Louis Chua (Sengkang GRC), Mr Saktiandi Supaat (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC) and Mr Melvin Yong (Radin Mas), who had asked whether there will be similar opportunities for younger cohorts. The scheme achieved the intended objectives of the past, says Mr Dinesh. \\u201cToday, three in five SDS holders have CDP accounts. There is therefore less need for a scheme similar to the SDS to serve as an entry point to share ownership.\\u201dHe adds that the new CPF scheme also gives Singaporeans another opportunity to benefit from investment schemes in a \\u201cstructured manner\\u201d, and these will be developed further. As at the end of April, around 83,000 SDS holders, or 13 per cent, have sold their shares, says Mr Dinesh. Around nine in 10 have opted to receive their proceeds in cash. In response to concerns from MPs on potential fraud, he says both Singtel and the CPF Board have incorporated clear scam advisories across all communications to SDS holders.\\u201cSDS holders are reminded to remain vigilant and refer only to official communications and touch points,\\u201d Mr Dinesh says, adding that they can always call the scam helpline if unsure.\\u201cWe are closely monitoring the post-implementation situation,\\u201d he adds. It has been smooth so far, with no complaints about residents being scammed. Parliament then passes the Bill.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"MPs call for more protection for the elderly and financially vulnerable in Singtel share transfer\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T19:50:00+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T19:55:47+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Several MPs call for stronger protections for the elderly and financially vulnerable, as Parliament debates the automatic transfer of Singtel special discounted shares (SDS) to individual accounts.While the move is intended to grant shareholders more autonomy, MPs raise concerns regarding scam risks and the potential erosion of retirement savings.With half of the 615,000 shareholders aged 65 and above, Mr Patrick Tay (Pioneer) says that \\u201cscams will follow wherever money is involved\\u201d.He adds that the CPF Board should provide proactive anti-scam advisories and questions what measures are in place to pre-empt bad actors who might exploit the transfer exercise.Mr Melvin Yong (Radin Mas), who is also president of the Consumers Association of Singapore, also notes that \\u201cbad actors\\u201d might pressure seniors to liquidate their shares for \\u201cunsuitable or fraudulent investments\\u201d, or trick them into downloading fake trading apps.There is also the risk that for many, the transfer may seem like a \\u201cwindfall\\u201d to unlock quick cash. This could compromise long-term retirement security, says Mr Yong, adding that others may not have the financial literacy to manage shares. \\u201cAt the very least, we should ensure basic safeguards aligned with the ones we already have in place for scams, such as cooling-off periods,\\u201d he adds. Ms Gho Sze Kee (Mountbatten) voices similar concerns. In allowing a direct cash-out, those who can least afford it might draw down their retirement savings too early.For some 20,000 members with low CPF balances and no CDP accounts, these shares are a core component of their retirement, she says. She suggests that sale proceeds return to CPF by default, as has \\u201calways been the practice\\u201d, as it would be safer for them.ST PHOTO: FELINE LIM\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"gabchan\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Singtel SDS holders to gain direct control of shares with new laws\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T19:29:43+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T19:36:35+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Minister of State for Manpower Dinesh Vasu Dash kicks off the debate on the Central Provident Fund (Amendment) Bill.The Bill facilitates the automatic transfer of ownership of Singtel SDS from the CPF Board to members\\u2019 individual Central Depository (CDP) accounts by November 2026. Mr Dinesh declares himself as an SDS shareholder but notes that the ministry has determined there is no conflict of interest. There are around 615,000 SDS holders, he says. The median SDS holder has around 1,360 shares, worth about $6,800 in equity value.The SDS scheme was introduced in 1993 to give Singaporeans a stake in Singapore\\u2019s economic success through share ownership, says Mr Dinesh. In 1993 and 1996, SDS holders were able to buy their shares at a discount. He goes on to outline options for SDS holders now: For those who want to keep their shares, no action is required. Shares will be automatically consolidated into CDP accounts for those who have them, and if not, accounts will be created for them. Dividends will continue to flow into their CPF Ordinary Account (OA).Those who want to sell their shares before November can choose to receive the sale proceeds in their CPF OA or in cash. Those who do not want to decide now will still have the option to sell at any point in the future, including after the transfer exercise.The Government and Singtel have already started outreach exercises, says Mr Dinesh. This includes a hard-copy notification letter in April 2026, and support channels such as a hotline, a website and in-person help at SingPost branches and CPF Service Centres. More than 20,000 SDS holders have been identified to require greater assistance, says Mr Dinesh. The ministry will conduct specific outreach to help them understand their choices.He adds that safeguards are in place to protect SDS holders from potential scams.ST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Healthy interest so far from firms to join dual listing arrangement, says Chee Hong Tat\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T19:18:05+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T19:27:05+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Returning to wrap up the debate, Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat says the immediate focus will be to facilitate the success of the Global Listing Board (GLB).With this experience, the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the SGX can then consider further partnerships in the future, he says in response to MPs who had asked about other potential stock exchange partners.Mr Chee, who is also deputy chairman of MAS, adds: \\u201cNow, I certainly do not want to count our chickens before they hatch. But let me just put it this way, there has been healthy interest from potential issuers on this GLB collaboration.\\u201dResponding to MPs\\u2019 questions on whether the new laws will bring benefits to Singapore and Singaporeans, he says that a successful Global Listing Board will bring more investor interest and liquidity into the Singapore market.No one can guarantee the success of this arrangement, he says, adding: \\u201cBut it goes back to something that we discussed before in this House.\\u201cAre we prepared to take calculated risks, identify what are the possible opportunities, and try, even though we know it may not be a guaranteed success? Because if you don\\u2019t try, the probability of success is zero,\\u201d says Mr Chee.On support for retail investors, Mr Chee says MAS will require issuers to clearly state in their preliminary prospectus that it is subject to further amendments and that investment decisions can be made based only on the final prospectus. The prospectus must disclose all material information and risks to allow investors to make informed decisions.The authorities will continue to work with partners to equip investors with the knowledge and skills to evaluate investment opportunities.Parliament passes the Bill.PHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Success of Bill should be determined by tangible effects on Singaporeans, say MPs\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T19:11:11+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T19:21:06+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The success of the Bill should be measured not by the number of quality listings alone, but by how much benefit Singapore receives, say MPs.Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin (Ang Mo Kio GRC) says: \\u201cIt should be measured by the extent to which those listings translate into tangible economic value for Singapore and Singaporeans.\\u201cBeyond the initial capital raised, what mechanisms (are there) to ensure that economic activity continues to accrue to Singapore over the life of these listings?\\u201cDo we have any plans to deepen local participation, both from investors and institutions attracting capital from other parts of Asia, so that Singapore\\u2019s role can grow?\\u201dMr Shawn Loh (Jalan Besar GRC) cautions that the current arrangements do not guarantee spillovers beyond the financial services sector. He hopes that new jobs can be created for Singaporeans through local and overseas firms having their headquarters or high-value-added functions here.He adds: \\u201cThe arrangements do not, in and of themselves, mean that a greater number of Singapore companies will benefit from the equities market.\\u201cWe must ask ourselves what we want our Singapore Stock Exchange to accomplish for our broader economy and our society, and what it should not accomplish. We want an avenue for quality Singapore companies to raise growth capital by issuing equity.\\u201dWP MP Jamus Lim (Sengkang GRC) says he is concerned that Singapore may lose out in cross-listing. The associated liquidity boost from listing across stock exchanges tends to concentrate in one dominant exchange, he notes, and this would likely be in the Nasdaq rather than the SGX.\\u201cOur moves to push for dual listings then may paradoxically result in our already scarce local liquidity leaking away into foreign shores,\\u201d he says.PHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"MPs concerned about risks associated with early engagement of retail investors\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T18:46:55+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T18:53:35+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"While MPs welcome an amendment that would allow firms to engage retail investors earlier in the listing process, they question whether this could lead to other risks instead.Investors may be unduly influenced if the communication happens too early and only the positive aspects are presented, says Mr Lee Hong Chuang (Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC).\\u201cBy the time the risk becomes apparent, it may be too late... Companies cannot lead with only the good news and leave the important risks to be disclosed later.\\u201dMr Yip Hon Weng (Yio Chu Kang) echoes Mr Lee\\u2019s sentiments and asks what accompanying measures will be introduced to address potential gaps.Mr Yip says: \\u201cIf investors receive a preliminary prospectus without the corresponding ability to evaluate it, they are exposed to increased risk rather than empowered to act.\\u201cThe safeguards in the Bill, including disclaimers and restrictions on application forms, are necessary, but they do not address this underlying gap in financial literacy.\\u201dMr Saktiandi Supaat, chairman of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Finance and Trade and Industry, questions whether there will be enhanced investor education or disclosure safeguards to help retail investors better understand the limitations of such early-stage information.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"New laws will streamline process for companies to list on more than one stock exchange: Chee Hong Tat\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T18:01:22+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T18:52:31+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"The second reading of the Securities and Futures (Amendment) Bill begins as Minister for National Development Chee Hong Tat explains the proposed amendments to the House.He introduces a new legislative framework to facilitate dual listing arrangements on the Singapore Exchange (SGX). A dual listing arrangement refers to a firm listing its shares on more than one stock exchange.The amendment is part of \\u201cefforts to enhance the competitiveness of our equities market and strengthen Singapore\\u2019s position as a leading financial centre\\u201d, says Mr Chee, who is deputy chairman of the Monetary Authority of Singapore.\\u201cThis Bill aims to attract more quality listings in Singapore by enabling issuers to tap local and overseas capital.\\u201dThe move will support the new Global Listing Board, which was announced in November 2025 and is targeted to launch in the middle of 2026.The initiative by SGX and Nasdaq is meant to facilitate cross-border capital-raising for companies and give investors access to a wider range of listings.Issuers who currently wish to list concurrently on the SGX and an overseas exchange may face different requirements across jurisdictions, notes Mr Chee. Additionally, some efforts to meet two sets of requirements may be duplicated, even if the principles that underpin the listing process are broadly similar.Mr Chee says: \\u201cThe proposed legislative framework addresses this concern by harmonising and streamlining requirements for concurrent dual listings on SGX and an eligible overseas exchange.\\u201cThe approach reduces regulatory compliance costs while upholding high standards.\\u201dPHOTO: REUTERS\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"laura\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"WP MPs oppose Bill after long exchange with Chee Hong Tat, Syed Harun over legality of fees collected by MND\\u2019s agencies\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T16:26:27+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T17:09:30+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Other WP MPs have joined the debate on the Bill, which includes an amendment that will retroactively validate fees collected by four agencies under the Ministry of National Development.WP chairwoman Sylvia Lim (Aljunied GRC) asks whether the collection of fees prior to this Bill was legally authorised.Dr Syed Harun says the fees were previously considered administrative charges, which agencies are allowed to collect. Given that the fees are in service of the statutory functions of the four agencies, MND was advised to obtain legislative backing to continue collecting them.The fees include those for the expedited inspection of buildings and the processing of temporary occupation permits, animal permits and species certifications, among others.WP NCMP Andre Low also asks about the legality of the fees collected, and adds: \\u201cIt\\u2019s a very simple question: Will there be refunds? If there are not going to be any refunds, why no refunds?\\u201dMinister for National Development Chee Hong Tat steps in to clarify that when the ministry provides a service, it recovers the costs. Otherwise, this would have to be funded by taxpayers. \\u201cThere\\u2019s really no refund to talk about, because this is not a wrong collection.\\u201dWP chief Pritam Singh chimes in to ask about the amount of fees collected and the number of Singaporeans affected.Dr Syed Harun says he does not have \\u201cthe full number of the extent of the collective amount as asked by Mr Pritam Singh, but I can give you some indication in terms of... the current numbers that we are looking at for specific agencies\\u201d. For example, renewing a policy under the HDB fire insurance scheme costs $3.27.Mr Chee steps in again to answer: \\u201cI would like to explain to Mr Singh and to the honourable members of the Workers\\u2019 Party that it\\u2019s not that we do not want to give you a number, it\\u2019s that I hope you understand these fees were collected over a long period of time \\u2013 if I\\u2019m not wrong, I think since independence, when we first started.\\u201cSo we may not have the full, accurate record of all the amounts collected that we are able to share with you precisely. That\\u2019s why I think my colleague (Dr Syed Harun) was struggling a little bit to look for the exact information.\\u201dHe asks that the House agree that the fees collected were not inappropriately or wrongly collected, but were regarded as administrative fees, and adds: \\u201cWe will certainly try our very best (to) arrive at that number accurately.\\u201dMr Singh says that as the Opposition, \\u201cwe come to this house to scrutinise Bills, and it is our duty to ask those questions\\u201d.His fellow Aljunied GRC MP Gerald Giam says he understands the difficulty in getting exact numbers and asks if there is \\u201can order of magnitude\\u201d that the Government can provide. He asks again if the Government will refund these fees, \\u201cwhich were illegally collected\\u201d.Mr Chee says he disagrees with Mr Giam\\u2019s characterisation of the fees as illegally collected.After several more exchanges on the legality of the fees, the House is asked to vote on the Bill.The 11 WP MPs present in the House \\u2013 Associate Professor Jamus Lim is not in the chamber \\u2013 record their dissent.This is the first time in this term of Parliament \\u2013 which began in September \\u2013 that the WP has opposed a Bill.PHOTO: MDDI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"WP MPs question why fees are being retroactively validated\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T15:04:36+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T16:25:18+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"WP MP Fadli Fawzi (Aljunied GRC) asks about the backdated validation of fees collected by the four agencies.He says the proposed change implies that the collection of the fees \\u201cran for years on a legal basis that the Government now concedes was inadequate\\u201d.\\u201cIt is a significant thing for this to have happened across four agencies under four different parent Acts, and to have gone undetected for as long as it did.\\u201dHe asks how much money was collected under the affected fees and if a cross-government review was commissioned when the legislative gap was discovered.His party colleague, Non-Constituency MP Andre Low, raises similar concerns. He cites a 2023 debate on a Bill that allowed President Tharman Shanmugaratam to hold international appointments in his private capacity, with its operative provisions backdated to the date of his inauguration. The argument then was that the backdating was acceptable because no one was prejudiced, notes Mr Low.While that is a possible reason to push for retroactive legislation, Mr Low says today\\u2019s proposed change does not pass the test, as the Government has not said how many Singaporeans were affected by these fees.He says: \\u201cI am not asserting that large numbers of people suffered serious harm. I do not know. Neither does this House.\\u201cIf the deductions were trivial and affected very few people, the Government can say so. The information exists. If the answer is reassuring, disclosure costs nothing. Its absence is harder to explain.\\u201dOn this topic, PAP MP David Hoe (Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC) says he understands that legislation has to be revised from time to time to address technical gaps. But he suggests that the Government explain clearly what happened and state whether any members of the public were materially affected.\\u201cWhile I have trust in the integrity of our public servants to do good by Singaporeans, public trust must continue to be sustained and strengthened when such matters are explained clearly and candidly.\\u201d\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Increase in wildlife feeding penalties among miscellaneous changes proposed in new Bill\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T14:17:58+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T16:09:31+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"We\\u2019re on to the next Bill. Senior Parliamentary Secretary for National Development Syed Harun Alhabsyi starts the debate on the Statutes (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill, which proposes amendments to several Acts.These amendments are largely technical and operational in nature, he says.We pick out some of the key changes.The Bill proposes that certain fees and charges imposed by the Building and Construction Authority, Housing Development Board, National Parks Board (NParks) and Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) be prescribed in legislation.Such fees include those for the expedited inspection of buildings and the processing of temporary occupation permits, animal permits and species certifications, among others.Dr Syed Harun says that these fees and charges, when originally introduced, were regarded as administrative charges for specific services or enforcement activities. But following a comprehensive internal review, the parent ministry of these statutory boards \\u2013 the Ministry of National Development \\u2013 was advised that the fees and charges should have been prescribed in legislation.Another proposed amendment will confer expanded functions on the URA, which will undertake and coordinate the planning of infrastructure for transport, utilities and other infrastructure in Singapore.It will also inform and advise the Government on matters relating to the planning of such infrastructure, and the planning and implementation of projects to provide and upgrade such infrastructure.Also proposed in the Bill is an increase in the maximum penalties for wildlife feeding offences.Maximum fines will be increased for both first-time and repeat offenders, who may also face up to 12 months\\u2019 imprisonment.For first-time offenders, maximum fines will increase from $5,000 to $10,000, while repeat offenders can be fined up to $20,000.\\u201cThis will provide stronger deterrence against illegal wildlife feeding, and better safeguard public health and safety,\\u201d says Dr Syed Harun.Hybrid plants will also be included in the definition of \\u201cscheduled species\\u201d in the Endangered Species (Import and Export) Act 2006.Dr Syed Harun notes that some countries require documentation for artificially propagated plant hybrids, even when exempted under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora annotations.\\u201cIncluding hybrid plants in the definition of \\u2018scheduled species\\u2019 allows NParks to issue the necessary documentation to facilitate trade,\\u201d he says.PHOTO: ST FILE\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Fees were appropriate and charged in good faith, says Syed Harun\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T15:58:38+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T15:58:38+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"On the backdated validation of fees, Dr Syed Harun says the fees were \\u201cappropriate and charged in good faith\\u201d. None of them was previously subject to legal challenge.Moving forward, the agencies will assess whether new fees or charges are related to the carrying out of statutory or regulatory functions, and will properly prescribe them in legislation if needed, says Dr Syed Harun.The Government disagrees with how WP MPs Andre Low and Fadli Fawzi have characterised the issue, he adds.\\u201cMND (Ministry of National Development) has chosen to bring this issue to Parliament as we are open and transparent about the matter. The fees charged were appropriate, not wrongly collected, and we are validating to ensure that this is, moving forward, aligned with legislation.\\u201dBoth Mr Low and Mr Fadli rise to ask again about the amount of fees that were collected under the affected clauses.Mr Fadli asks: \\u201cOn what legal basis did each of these agencies think that they had authority to impose these fees or charges in the first place?\\u201dDr Syed Harun says Mr Fadli is framing the proposed amendment in a way that suggests a mistake was made in the past that \\u201cseems to be egregious\\u201d and the ministry is now trying to correct it.\\u201cBut the spirit of this Bill is really about making sure that we move forward with the legislative backing and mandate for our agencies.\\u201dHe says that the Attorney-General\\u2019s Chambers had advised that it is better for fees charged for carrying out statutory and regulatory functions to be provided for in legislation.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"laura\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Govt will continue with public education efforts to deter illegal wildlife feeding: Syed Harun\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T15:36:18+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T15:44:20+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Dr Syed Harun returns to the debate to address concerns from MPs.He says NParks will continue its public education efforts and partner agencies such as the People\\u2019s Association and town councils on enforcement and surveillance efforts to deter illegal wildlife feeding.The agencies will engage elderly offenders with mental health or psychological needs to understand the underlying needs and motivations for such behaviour, address misconceptions and raise awareness on the negative impacts of bird feeding.\\u201cWe do need appropriate penalties to deter errant behaviours, but our approach is not merely to penalise.\\u201cNParks offers feeders with mental health needs nature-based activities, like community gardening and bird watching, as alternatives to feeding.\\u201dOn the amendments to URA\\u2019s role and functions, these do not supersede the primary planning responsibilities and functions of agencies such as LTA and HDB, he says.Dr Syed Harun adds: \\u201cThese agencies will continue to lead planning and implementation of their development and infrastructure within their respective domains, such as for smaller-scale, municipal infrastructure.\\u201dHe is responding to Mr David Hoe\\u2019s (Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC) question on how the URA\\u2019s expanded role will affect existing planning functions of other agencies.The URA, as Singapore\\u2019s national urban planning authority, already coordinates infrastructure and land use planning, he adds.It also works with different agencies to ensure that large-scale infrastructure to support developments is implemented ahead of time. PHOTO: MDDI\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"laura\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Pritam Singh clarifies Tan Kiat How\\u2019s references to absent member\\u2019s points in speech\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T14:12:02+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T14:15:42+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"WP chief Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) raises a point of order regarding Mr Tan\\u2019s citation of points made by Ms Mariam Jaafar (Sembawang GRC).In his speech, Mr Tan had noted that Ms Mariam was unable to speak on the Bill because of an overseas work trip, and had sent her speech to him. He said he had taken note of her points and would address them where relevant.Ms Mariam was referred to at least twice in Mr Tan\\u2019s speech, says Mr Singh. \\u201cI\\u2019d just like to confirm whether that is as per the standing orders,\\u201d says Mr Singh. \\u201cBecause in the Hansard, we won\\u2019t have the honourable member\\u2019s speech, but the minister has referred to her, I believe, at least once at the beginning and once in the course of his speech.\\u201d Hansard is the official Parliament record.\\u201cMr Singh, you are right,\\u201d says Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng. \\u201cAny member who wishes to make a point must be in Parliament to make his or her speech, so the references (made) are not correct.\\u201d Mr Seah adds: \\\"This is a good reminder to all members that you have to be present in the chamber to make your speech and make your points.\\u201dParliament then passes the Bill.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Power to separate dominant media players is a \\u2018last resort\\u2019 and there are strict limits on its usage: Tan Kiat How\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T13:22:50+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T13:43:34+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How returns to wrap up the debate and seeks to address MPs\\u2019 concerns about the extent of the powers the Bill will grant the Government.On the power the laws give the Minister for Digital Development and Information to order the structural separation of a dominant media player, Mr Tan says there are strict legal limits to its usage, and that such an order would be a \\u201clast resort\\u201d after all other regulatory tools have failed.He says three requirements must be met before this order can be used: There must be market conditions where one player is stopping competitors from providing services; the regulators must have exhausted their current tools; and the minister must be independently satisfied that issuing such an order is in the public interest.In making this assessment on public interest, the minister is required to work within the confines of the law and consider whether the order is necessary or desirable to promote fair and efficient competition in the media sector, among other requirements, he says.The minister\\u2019s discretion remains constrained even after the order is issued, he says, and a new section of the law will require the minister to ensure that the directions included in the separation order are proportionate.\\u201cPrecisely because this is a serious intervention, it is important that the necessary powers are available should the situation arise. Their existence also sends a strong signal to the market that the Government will act decisively to safeguard fair competition and market conduct.\\u201dHe also addresses MPs\\u2019 concerns about the effects such moves could have on workers. He says the Government encourages unionised companies embarking on or undergoing major organisational restructurings to engage NTUC and its unions early, and work closely with them to manage the impact on staff. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Question time is over\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T12:35:39+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T12:41:31+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Parliament resumes its debate on new laws governing the media industry, which seek to give the Government more regulatory powers over media ownership and market dominance.Mr Lee Hong Chuang (Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC) joins the debate, pointing to the invention of the smartphone as an example of new tech that has blurred the boundaries between media and information technology companies. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Child LifeSG credits: 83% of credits disbursed in July 2025 used, no extension beyond one-year deadline \",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T12:14:05+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T12:30:23+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Of the Child LifeSG credits disbursed in July 2025, 83 per cent have been utilised as at April 2026, says Mr Goh Pei Ming, Minister of State for Social and Family Development.There will be no extension beyond the July 2026 expiry date, he adds. He is responding to Mr David Hoe (Jurong East-Bukit Batok GRC), who asked about the take-up rate of Child LifeSG Credits and whether the ministry will consider extending the 12-month validity period.The Child LifeSG credits, announced at Budget 2025 to help Singaporean families with young children with household expenses, are for children born between 2013 and 2024. Disbursements were given out starting from July 7, 2025. For those born in 2025, the credits were given in April 2026. More than 450,000 children are expected to benefit from the credits. \\u201cThe ministry has been issuing reminders to utilise the credits via our social media platforms, as well as via the LifeSG app and SMS messages,\\u201d says Mr Goh, adding that final reminders will be sent to those with unused credits in June, before the credits expire in July. While the current take-up rate is \\u201chealthy\\u201d, Mr Goh says some parents and families could be budgeting the credits or spreading them out over the year. \\u201cIn some cases, there\\u2019s inertia. Families leave it until the very last minute to claim and to use. In some cases, families are overseas,\\u201d he says, responding to Mr Hoe\\u2019s question on the reason behind the remaining unused credits.\\u201cOr in some cases, as the member has pointed out, they may be simply unaware,\\u201d Mr Goh says, adding that the ministry will provide more reminders and announcements.ST PHOTO: GIN TAY \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"gabchan\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"No plans to install solar-powered fans at bus stops\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T11:18:53+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T12:25:34+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"There are no plans to install solar-powered fans at bus stops, says Minister of State for Transport Baey Yam Keng.According to trials by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the fans have \\u201climited impact on the ambient temperature\\u201d at a bus stop, and commuter feedback was \\u201cunfavourable\\u201d, Mr Baey says. He is responding to Ms Lee Hui Ying (Nee Soon GRC), who asked if the Ministry of Transport has considered installing solar-powered fans at bus stops to improve commuter comfort. The Straits Times reported in 2016 that LTA, under a six-month pilot scheme, installed electric fans at five bus stops to see if the wait could be made cooler and more comfortable for commuters. At the time, commuters had mixed reactions \\u2013 some welcomed the cool respite, while others felt it was unnecessary.\\u201cMost bus stops are also shaded by surrounding buildings and trees, reducing the effectiveness of solar installations,\\u201d Mr Baey says, adding that LTA will study other options to improve commuter comfort.ST PHOTO: BRIAN TEO\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"No changes in hiring preferences for now amid global energy crisis: Tan See Leng\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T11:16:48+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T11:58:04+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Minister for Manpower Tan See Leng says firms have not shifted their hiring preferences at the moment, as concerns over the job market grow amid the Middle East war.He was responding to a question from Mr Yip Hon Weng (Yio Chu Kang) on whether the Ministry of Manpower (MOM) has observed any shift in hiring preferences between local and foreign workers.Dr Tan says: \\u201cOur resident employment continued to grow in the first quarter of 2026... and that growth was higher compared with the first quarter of 2025.\\u201cOur work pass policies also ensure that Singaporeans are given a level playing field against foreign workers, and we do our best to ensure that our foreign workers here are complementary to our local Singaporean workers.\\u201dBased on MOM\\u2019s survey released earlier last week, the proportion of firms intending to hire in the next three months fell from 54.6 per cent in February to 44.6 per cent in March.Singapore\\u2019s total employment grew by 5,000 in the first quarter of 2026, extending a streak of 18 consecutive quarters of jobs growth.This was higher than the 2,300 jobs added in the first quarter of 2025, but a sharp slowdown from the 17,700 recorded in the last quarter of 2025.Dr Tan adds that the report from Singapore's Economic Strategy Review will be released soon, in response to Dr Choo Pei Ling\\u2019s (Chua Chu Kang GRC) question on whether Singapore\\u2019s workforce planning approach is being adapted further.\\u201cI had the opportunity of reading the draft of the Economic Strategy Review report. I think it is going to be released soon, and many of the points that she covered will and have actually been addressed in the report.\\u201dST PHOTO: KUA CHEE SIONG\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Parliament has begun\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T11:13:21+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T11:13:21+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Question time has begun with a number of questions about whether the global energy crisis has affected jobs.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"What to watch out for today\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T09:52:56+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T11:11:13+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"MPs have asked 77 questions today. Here are some highlights:Is the energy crisis affecting jobs? MPs want to know how the energy crisis is affecting hiring and job prospects. Mr Yip Hon Weng (Yio Chu Kang) has asked whether there are signs of slower entry-level job creation or longer job searches and what further measures are being considered to support employment opportunities, while Mr Liang Eng Hwa (Bukit Panjang) has asked whether the Government sees hiring by businesses to be more subdued and what sectors are most affected.Growing interest in EVs and solar energy: There\\u2019s been more interest in using alternative sources as the global energy crisis pushes up pump and electricity prices. WP MP Kenneth Tiong (Aljunied GRC) has asked about the take-up rate of the EV early adoption incentive and whether the authorities will introduce financial incentives for residential solar panels. Dr Choo Pei Ling (Chua Chu Kang GRC) asked if the Government would mandate or incentivise installation of solar panels for buildings and estates.SkillsFuture drop-out rates: Mr Cai Yinzhou (Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC) wants to know the dropout rates among learners in SkillsFuture Singapore-funded programmes by stage and course category, and how many appeals by learners to waive course fees or penalties upon non-completion or failure are received annually. He has also asked for employment or certification rates based on all enrollees, rather than just graduates.We\\u2019re also halfway through the debate on a Bill that will broaden the scope of IMDA\\u2019s authority over ownership in the media sector, and will require the regulator\\u2019s approval if anyone seeks to acquire more than 30 per cent of any such company.We\\u2019ll continue with that today, along with debates on another three Bills.This includes one that will allow owners of Singtel special discounted shares \\u2013 discounted shares purchased through the Central Provident Fund as part of a scheme to give Singaporeans a greater stake in economic growth in the 1990s \\u2013 to manage them directly.If you\\u2019re here, you must like politics. We\\u2019ll be Unpacking this sitting in our weekly (free) newsletter. So far it looks (extremely) full.Check out last week\\u2019s issue looking at the May Day Rally, which framed this week\\u2019s labour and employment debates here. \",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Catch up on yesterday\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T09:25:23+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T11:07:30+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"We had another long sitting yesterday. Catch up on what happened here:\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}},{\"@type\":\"BlogPosting\",\"headline\":\"Good morning\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-07T09:02:44+08:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-07T11:06:10+08:00\",\"articleBody\":\"Welcome to our Parliament live blog. It\\u2019s Day 3.\",\"publisher\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"The Straits Times\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Goh Yan Han\"}}]}","keywords","Singapore Parliament, Live blog, Singapore politicians, Members of Parliament, Singapore Politics, NTUC, jobs, MOE","robots","index, follow, max-image-preview:large, max-snippet:-1, max-video-preview:-1","image","https://static1.straitstimes.com.sg/s3fs-public/articles/2026/05/07/afinteriorparl070526_0.jpg?VersionId=JHrG7KdzouIY6o7hB_9ypwX6Mfs9oqJN","gaData",{"_92":93,"_94":21,"_95":21,"_20":96,"_97":98,"_99":100,"_101":102},"level2","23","chapter1","chapter2","Live:_WP_and_Chee_Hong_Tat_clash_over_laws_to_retroactively_validate_fees_charged_by_MND's_agencies","title_ga","Live: WP and Chee Hong Tat clash over laws to retroactively validate fees charged by MND's agencies","pagination","1","contenttype","live blog","additionalVariants","dependentPaths",[],"actionData","errors"]