Next up, Our Singapore Conversation dialogues on public housing: Khaw

Hot button issues on public housing will be on the agenda for a new series of the Our Singapore Conversation dialogues starting next week.

The Government is hoping to hear from Singaporeans on issues such as whether an HDB flat should become an appreciating asset? Or how the HDB can meet the housing needs of both the rising number of retiring baby boomers and younger Singaporeans at the same time?

Writing in a blog post on Saturday, National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan said that while home ownership rate in Singapore is the highest in the world, a temporary imbalance in supply and demand has pushed up property prices to "bubble-like level."

"We are pulling out all stops to deflate the bubble without causing it to suddenly burst. This requires skills and luck," he added. "After much effort, we are seeing light at the end of the tunnel, though we are still not yet out of it. But we now have a breather to think about longer term reforms."

He said while many Singaporeans have responded to the call for feedback he made in in Parliament last month, he hopes to hear from more - including buyers, sellers, academics and industry experts.

Input from the public as well as insights gleaned from the Our Singapore Conversation sessions, to be held over the next three months, will be used to help the Government shape the future of housing policies.

Those are not able to participate in the sessions can also submit these feedback through a website, http://www.mnd.gov.sg/homesweethome.

Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.