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Straits Times
5 days ago
- Health
- Straits Times
MSF will continue to build on collaborative approach to supporting families: Masagos
Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli reiterated the Government's upcoming plans to support families. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO MSF will continue to build on collaborative approach to supporting families: Masagos SINGAPORE – Shortly after getting married in 2021, social worker Eleanore James and her husband Timothy James started trying for a child – something Mr James had always wanted. But two months in, she experienced a sharp abdominal pain which landed her in the hospital. A battery of tests found cancer in both her ovaries. She said: 'My oncologist told us the very devastating news that it is not possible for us to have children. 'I felt like our world crashed. I had to make a difficult decision to propose an annulment to Timothy since we were still newly married.' But Mr James refused: 'I did not even want to reconsider. I remembered my wedding vows towards her – in sickness and in health.' On May 31, the couple's story was featured in an interactive exhibition at the launch of this year's National Family Festival. The showcase features a selection of stories about the ups and downs of family life submitted by over 500 families for a campaign run by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) called 'Real Families, Real Stories'. Mrs Eleanore James and her husband Timothy James participated in MSF's "Real Families, Real Stories" campaign because they wanted to bring hope to other couples. PHOTO: COURTESY OF TIMOTHY AND ELEANOR JAMES Mrs James, now 36, and Mr James, a 43-year-old halfway house operations assistant, chose to participate because they wanted to bring hope to other couples. The launch event was held at the Singapore Expo, and marks the start of a series of events across the island in June. Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli gave a speech at the festival's launch – his first since the general election and being sworn in on May 23. He reiterated the Government's upcoming plans to support families, such as the increase in shared parental leave from 26 to 30 weeks in April 2026, and more benefits for couples who have two or more children announced at the 2025 Budget. He said: 'Family is critical to our journey in our life, and also as a nation... As our society evolves, so do the needs of our families. They change, and therefore we must ensure that familial support systems remain relevant and robust.' These moves were implemented as part of a plan launched three years ago – 'A Singapore Made for Families 2025', he said. 'This marked a pivotal shift in how we support and uplift families. Through the plan, we established a collaborative approach, where we integrate government support across every stage of family life, to ensure that families have a comprehensive ecosystem of support.' The launch event for this year's National Family Festival at the Singapore Expo marks the start of a series of events across the island in June. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO MSF will continue to build on the progress of the last three years, Mr Masagos added. At the Forward Singapore engagement sessions, many shared their hopes and concerns for the future, including in areas such as cost of living, housing accessibility and affordability, and fostering more family-friendly practices, he noted. 'We have heard you, and will continue to enhance our support for families,' he said. The Government's vision is to build a Singapore made for families, but this is not something it can do alone, Mr Masagos said. 'We cannot realise this vision on our own. Throughout the decades, we have seen community participation and partnership playing a significant role in the success of our nation, and therefore in fulfilling this vision.' With the partnership between the community, corporates and the Government, efforts are amplified and more lives are reached, he added. 'We all have a part to play in this journey. Let us continue to build a Singapore in which every family feels valued and supported, wherever they may be in life,' he said. One family at the event was retired contractor Toh Chee Keong, 57, and housewife Vu Thi Sam, 42, with their six children aged between four and 18. Mr Toh said having a large family is a joy, but good finances are the most important ingredient in making it work. He said: 'I'm lucky enough that I can support my family... We have two helpers to do the housework, which really lessens our burden. So we just enjoy watching our children and playing with them.' Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
The Star
26-05-2025
- The Star
Safe clubbing campaign returns in Singapore but molestation and fights in nightspots continue to be concerns
The campaign was launched by Goh Pei Ming (third from left), Minister of State for Home Affairs and for Social and Family Development. -- PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO SINGAPORE (The Straits Times/ANN): Despite fewer molestation cases and fights at nightlife venues, the return of the Safe Clubbing Campaign for its fifth year underscores ongoing concerns. The annual initiative organised by the Singapore Police Force and National Crime Prevention Council aims to promote responsible and moderate drinking habits while enjoying a night out. With the tagline 'Celebrate Right, Enjoy Responsibly', the 2025 campaign was launched on May 26 at live music venue HaveFun LiveShow at Bugis+ by Goh Pei Ming, Minister of State for Home Affairs and for Social and Family Development. As part of the campaign, Safe Clubbing drink coasters will be distributed to 209 public entertainment outlets islandwide. These coasters feature safety reminders and a QR code linking to the Safe Clubbing Challenge mobile game launched in 2024. Advisory videos conveying key safety messages – such as respecting boundaries and staying calm to defuse potentially tense situations – will also be shown at nightspots. The videos feature local media personalities such as Li Nanxing, Constance Song, Vivian Lai, Evelyn Tan and Darren Lim. Goh said: 'No one will want to visit a public entertainment outlet hoping to have a good night out, only to end up injured, or to become a victim of crime. 'Public entertainment outlets with such reputation will probably find it more difficult to draw in customers. So, it makes good business sense, too, to work hand-in-hand and have measures in place to ensure that all Singaporeans looking for a night out will have a safe and enjoyable experience.' The police said outrage of modesty cases in the first quarter of the year declined by more than 34 per cent compared with the same period in 2024, dropping from 29 to 19. Similarly, cases involving rioting, affray, disorderly behaviour and serious hurt at nightspots saw a slight drop from 14 cases during the first three months of 2024 to 12 cases during the same period in 2025. This is a shift from the trends in 2024, when the campaign was held amid rising molestation cases and fights at nightspots. Previous versions of this campaign were also held in 2018, 2019 and 2023. Acknowledging the decline, Goh said: 'While the data is encouraging, such cases remain a concern, particularly outrage of modesty. In particular, these cases in and around public entertainment outlets still make up about 7 per cent of total cases nationwide last year.' In 2024, 103 out of 1,427 outrage of modesty cases occurred at nightspots. 'Fights at nightspots also continue to occur,' said Superintendent Randy Chua, commanding officer of Marina Bay Neighbourhood Police Centre. 'Through this campaign, we are reinforcing our collaboration with industry partners to create a safe and respectful environment for all,' he added. - The Straits Times/ANN
Straits Times
26-05-2025
- Straits Times
Safe clubbing campaign returns as molestation, fights in nightspots continue to be concerns
The campaign was launched by Mr Goh Pei Ming (third from left), Minister of State for Home Affairs and for Social and Family Development. PHOTO: LIANHE ZAOBAO Safe clubbing campaign returns as molestation, fights in nightspots continue to be concerns SINGAPORE – Despite fewer molestation cases and fights at nightlife venues, the return of the Safe Clubbing Campaign for its fifth year underscores ongoing concerns. The annual initiative organised by the Singapore Police Force and National Crime Prevention Council aims to promote responsible and moderate drinking habits while enjoying a night out. With the tagline 'Celebrate Right, Enjoy Responsibly', the 2025 campaign was launched on May 26 at live music venue HaveFun LiveShow at Bugis+ by Mr Goh Pei Ming, Minister of State fo r Home Affairs and fo r Social and Family Development. As part of the campaign, Safe Clubbing drink coasters will be distributed to 209 public entertainment outlets islandwide. These coasters feature safety reminders and a QR code linking to the Safe Clubbing Challenge mobile game launched in 2024. Advisory videos conveying key safety messages – such as respecting boundaries and staying calm to defuse potentially tense situations – will also be shown at nightspots. The videos feature local media personalities such as Li Nanxing, Constance Song, Vivian Lai, Evelyn Tan and Darren Li m . Mr Goh said: 'No one will want to visit a public entertainment outlet hoping to have a good night out, only to end up injured, or to become a victim of crime. 'Public entertainment outlets with such reputation will probably find it more difficult to draw in customers. So, it makes good business sense, too, to work hand-in-hand and have measures in place to ensure that all Singaporeans looking for a night out will have a safe and enjoyable experience.' T he police said outrage of modesty cases in the first quarter of the year declined by more than 34 per cent compared with the same period in 2024, dropping from 29 to 19. Similarly, cases involving rioting, affray, disorderly behaviour and serious hurt at nightspots saw a slight drop from 14 cases during the first three months of 2024 to 12 cases during the same period in 2025. This is a shift from the trends in 2024, when the campaign was held amid rising molestation cases and fights at nightspots. Previous versions of this campaign were also held in 2018, 2019 and 2023. Acknowledging the decline, Mr Goh said: 'While the data is encouraging, such cases remain a concern, particularly outrage of modesty. In particular, these cases in and around public entertainment outlets still make up about 7 per cent of total cases nationwide last year.' In 2024, 103 out of 1,427 outrage of modesty cases occurred at nightspots. 'Fights at nightspots also continue to occur,' said Superintendent Randy Chua, commanding officer of Marina Bay Neighbourhood Police Centr e. 'Through this campaign, we are reinforcing our collaboration with industry partners to create a safe and respectful environment for all,' he added. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Straits Times
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Faishal Ibrahim to be Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs
SINGAPORE - Associate Professor Faishal Ibrahim, who is being promoted to Senior Minister of State, will be appointed Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, as part of Cabinet reshuffle moves. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced on May 21 that Prof Faishal will take over the Muslim Affairs portfolio from Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli, who held the position for seven years. During a press conference about the reshuffle, PM Wong also said that Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad will take over the chairmanship of self-help group Mendaki. He is currently deputy chairman. 'So Faishal and Zaqy, together with other Malay/Muslim office-holders and MPs, will continue to engage the Malay/Muslim community closely, building on the strong foundations we have today and working with the community to realise our shared goals,' said PM Wong. He added that he too will work closely with the community. 'Engaging the Malay/Muslim community was a priority for me in the last term, and it will continue to be a priority in this new term of government,' said PM Wong. Leadership transition in the Malay/Muslim community has been a matter that PM Wong said he had discussed with Mr Masagos. PM Wong noted that Mr Masagos had done a good job during his tenure, having advanced many initiatives such as M³ – a partnership between Mendaki, the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), and the People's Association Malay Activity Executive Committees Council (Mesra). Mr Masagos had also championed efforts such as the establishment of the Singapore College of Islamic Studies. These contributions, PM Wong added, were valued and appreciated by the community. Both he and Mr Masagos had agreed that it was time to refresh the Malay/Muslim leadership and give new and younger office-holders the opportunity to step up, engage the community, and work with them to achieve shared goals. In consultations with his Cabinet colleagues and Mr Masagos himself, it was agreed that Prof Faishal would be the best person to take over as Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, said PM Wong. PM Wong said Mr Zaqy would assist Prof Faishal, alongside other Malay/Muslim office-holders. New additions to the team include Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim, who will be a Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Social and Family Development, and Dr Syed Harun Alhabsyi, who will serve as a Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the Ministry of National Development and the Ministry of Education. They will join Minister of State for Health and Digital Development and Information Rahayu Mahzam. PM Wong said that together with the other Malay/Muslim MPs, these individuals will work hard to engage the Malay/Muslim community and listen to their concerns and aspirations. Responding to a question on what his priorities for the community would be, Prof Faishal said that he was grateful for the trust placed in him by PM Wong, adding that he recognised the significant responsibility that comes with his new appointment. 'This is a very important area, and it's a big responsibility,' he said. Thanking Mr Masagos for his contributions, Prof Faishal said that he intended to continue and build on key programmes in the community. Reflecting on his experience, Prof Faishal noted that he has been involved with the Malay/Muslim community for nearly 30 years, beginning as a grassroots and community leader before becoming an MP and subsequently holding roles in government. In those roles, he worked with the community across a range of areas, from education to social and family development, housing, and most recently, the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders. Through his work, he said, he has found value in connecting both widely and deeply with the community. Prof Faishal said that when he works closely with residents, people become more involved as they begin to understand the challenges involved in supporting others. He noted that this approach allows the community to celebrate small victories, which cumulatively lead to larger achievements. But Prof Faishal also acknowledged that progress takes time and effort, and that building momentum requires bringing people together and creating opportunities for collective action. 'What is key is how we work together as a community,' he said. PM Wong was also asked about the chairmanship of the Chinese Community Liaison Group (CCLG), which was established in 2000 to strengthen the Government's relationship with Chinese community organisations and deepen its understanding of the Chinese community. He said the role, currently held by Mr Edwin Tong – who will be taking over the Ministry of Law – will be handed over to Mr Chee Hong Tat, who will be appointed Minister for National Development. Hariz Baharudin is a correspondent at The Straits Times covering politics. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
Straits Times
01-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
GE2025: Vision for Tampines includes model town, more support for seniors and low-income families
Social and Family Development Minister Masagos Zulkifli speaking at the rally in Temasek Junior College on May 1. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM Follow our live coverage here. SINGAPORE - A model town featuring a regional town centre, more active ageing centres for seniors and greater support for low-income families are among the plans the PAP has in store for Tampines residents. The estate will be an example of a caring community prepared for the future, said Social and Family Development Minister Masagos Zulkifli. Speaking at a rally in Temasek Junior College on May 1, Mr Masagos said there are nine active ageing centres now, with more to come, and a new nursing home is also being built in the north of the town. Mr Masagos, who is also Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, also highlighted several projects in Tampines that have been completed. For instance, Tampines can take pride in being Singapore's first cycling town, the test site of Wolbachia mosquitoes to reduce dengue cases, as well as the town that has the country's first district cooling network. 'Anyone can build a town. But a model town? That takes more than bricks. It takes heart and people,' said Mr Masagos. In his rally speech, he also asked what the opposition will do for residents if any of the three other parties contesting Tampines GRC is voted into Parliament. At least one party, he added, has said it will move forward with plans he has drawn up for the town. Mr Masagos said: 'I said to them, excuse me, that's my plan. Just because you've read the in-flight magazine, doesn't mean you know how to fly the plane.' The PAP Tampines team on the other hand, has 'always moved forward... side-by-side' with residents, he added. In his Malay speech, Mr Masagos said things are not perfect, but the ruling party will continue to listen and engage residents and work on solving outstanding issues. He said: 'We realise that there are still many things that are not perfect. Not all requests can be granted immediately, I apologise if there are things that have not been fulfilled. 'However, the Government will continue to strive, continue to listen and engage in dialogue, so that the problems faced by the community can be resolved as best as they could.' Earlier, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong, speaking at the rally, called on Singaporeans to vote for the PAP so that it can secure Singapore's interests and keep the country exceptional. Dr Koh Poh Koon, who is Senior Minister of State for Manpower, as well as Sustainability and the Environment, said he has had many discussions with residents, listening to them and trying to understand the challenges they face and also to explain the thinking behind some of the policies that are in place. 'We don't do it like the opposition, telling you all the good things, trying to shove all the medications down your throat without telling you the consequences,' he added. He also said that unlike the opposition, 'the PAP doesn't just talk about policy, we implement it'. Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong concluding his speech at the PAP rally for Tampines GRC and Tampines Changkat SMC in Temasek Junior College on May 1. ST PHOTO: KEVIN LIM PAP fresh face and former army chief David Neo, said some senior citizens he spoke to were concerned that younger voters 'might be swayed by promises that sound sweet'. Addressing younger voters, Mr Neo said: 'You are not just the leaders of tomorrow. You are the decision-makers of today. We believe in you, and we know that you will see clearly and choose wisely.' In his speech, Tampines Changkat SMC candidate Desmond Choo said the election is not about 'tearing others down without a plan of your own'. He said when Singaporeans go to the polls on May 3, it is about choosing hope over hostility. 'It is about building up, not breaking down. It is about who you trust to stand by you, today, tomorrow and for the next five years,' he added. The second newbie in the PAP Tampines team, university don Charlene Chen, said the PAP is not focused on making grand speeches and empty promises. Its focus is real work, she added. Dr Chen said Tampines residents can easily speak to PAP leaders, and recounted how one resident told her: 'Where else in the world can you see your MP, your minister, and even your prime minister walking the ground?' On April 30, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong joined the PAP team contesting Tampines GRC and Tampines Changkat for a walkabout in the area, and urged voters to think about Singapore's future and choose the right candidates. In his rally speech, Mr Baey Yam Keng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Transport, and Sustainability and the Environment urged residents to let the PAP team in Tampines continue its work. He said he will take over as chairman of Tampines Town Council if elected to Parliament, and with his team, work on improving cleanliness in the estate, introducing more solar panels, and add more rest points and ramps for seniors. Said Mr Baey: 'It has been a joy and honour to serve you and to build Tampines together with you. We humbly ask you to let us serve you again, not just as your voices in Parliament, but as your kakis on the ground. 'On Saturday, please let us return home with you.' Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
