Election of Speaker

At 1.00 pm, the Serjeant-at-Arms laid the Mace below the Table.

The Leader of the House (Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien) stood up, and addressing herself to the Clerk of Parliament said: Clerk of Parliament, I propose that Mr Tan Chuan-Jin do take the Chair of this Parliament as Speaker.

Mr Seah Kian Peng (Marine Parade): Clerk of Parliament, I support the proposal.

There being only one proposal, the Clerk then declared Mr Tan Chuan-Jin to have been duly elected as Speaker of this Parliament.

Mr Speaker went to the Chair and sat down.

Then, the Mace (which before laid below the Table) was placed on the Table.

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

The Leader of the House (Ms Grace Fu Hai Yien): Mr Speaker, Sir, on behalf of the House, I extend to you our heartiest congratulations on your election as the 10th Speaker of Parliament.

Sir, the Prime Minister has said that you "stood out as the best choice" as the next Speaker of Parliament. Everyone who has interacted with you can attest to your patience and willingness to listen to both sides of a debate. In the years ahead, the many complex and multifaceted challenges facing Singapore will need fair, frank and honest debate. This House can expect a Speaker who will conduct the proceedings with impartiality and enable MPs to serve their fellow Singaporeans in building a better society.

Mr Speaker, over the years, you have demonstrated a strong passion and heart for the people. Your sincerity and affable demeanour have given you an exceptional ability to reach out to and connect with people, whether they were heritage or environmental groups, foreign worker advocates, or social service organisations. Across your diverse portfolios in National Development, Manpower and Social and Family Development, one thing remains the same − you have earned the trust of people of different convictions and views. Your capacity to encourage civil dialogue and conversation among people of diverse perspectives will be something that is, as Speaker, central to ensuring we continue to have productive and healthy debates in this House.

You similarly earned the trust and respect from stakeholders beyond your work in the Government when you took on the mantle of leading the Singapore National Olympic Council as President in 2014 and helped sports in Singapore scale new heights. The last two Southeast Asian (SEA) Games under your watch set new records − our best medal haul ever in 2015 and our best away-games medals result in Kuala Lumpur (KL) this year. You wanted to give our young athletes the opportunity in KL and decided to send the largest contingent for an away-Games. And, of course, there was Singapore's first Olympic gold. You engaged the National Sports Associations to know the issues they were facing and supported them to grow and develop our sports talent. And you were there in the stands, shoulder to shoulder with all the Singaporean fans, cheering your heart out for Team Singapore.

These qualities characterised your engagements on all issues, whether they were on defence, infrastructure, manpower or social affairs. Your wide exposure to policies from economic to social, infrastructure to heritage will no doubt prepare you well for the wide array of policies and legislation that will be debated in this House.

Mr Speaker, Sir, we are, therefore, delighted to welcome you as the new Speaker of Parliament while we will miss your contributions in Government. In electing you to take the Chair of this Parliament, this House places its full confidence in your ability to preside over its proceedings with fairness and uphold the standards of this august institution. I ask all Members to join me in pledging our support and cooperation to conduct ourselves with decorum at all times and respect the privileges accorded to us as MPs. I also have a personal request for the Speaker as he takes on his new appointment. We have been jogging partners along the river and around Parliament. Now that you are leading this institution, and have an office here, I hope we will have more opportunities to run together and look forward to a refreshed gym in Parliament.

Mr Speaker, Sir, on behalf of the House, I would also like to pay tribute to your predecessor, Mdm Halimah Yacob. Mdm Halimah was first elected as the Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore at its 12th Parliament and re-elected at the 13th Parliament. She advanced gender equality by being the first female Speaker of Parliament and is now taking strides towards the highest office of the country.

I am sure all Members will agree that Mdm Halimah discharged her functions fairly, impartially and fully upheld the best traditions of this House. With tenacity and patience and without fear or favour, Mdm Halimah moved the proceedings of this House smoothly and even-handedly. She gave all Members the opportunity to voice their views and share their proposals on how we can progress confidently forward as One Singapore.

During her term, the debates in this House spanned issues across the social, economic, security and political spectrum.

The Population White Paper sparked one of the most intense debates of the 12th Parliament in February 2013, less than a month into Mdm Halimah's role as Speaker. This House debated and endorsed the White Paper, where we called on the Government to adopt strategies towards a sustainable population in Singapore, with a focus on maintaining a strong Singaporean Core and addressing infrastructure demands.

In January 2014, the 2013 Little India Riot, the most serious public order incident Singapore had encountered in over 40 years, topped Parliament's agenda. Recognising the threat posed to the safety and harmony of the community, and the need to restore normalcy quickly, this House expeditiously deliberated and passed the Public Order (Additional Temporary Measures) Bill in February 2014. The Committee of Inquiry's recommendations were later presented and accepted by the Ministry of Home Affairs in July that year.

In March 2015, Parliament House became the place for grief and remembrance of our Founding Prime Minister Mr Lee Kuan Yew. Mdm Speaker made the House available to Singaporeans from all walks of life, ordinary people, civil servants, community leaders, students to foreign Heads of State. The nation was united in grief as more than 450,000 people filed through Parliament House to pay their last respects to the late Mr Lee.

More recently, in November 2016, we passed the Constitutional amendments to the Elected Presidency after three days of robust debate. These changes will provide stability to Singapore's political system and ensure multiracial representation in the Elected Presidency.

Throughout the vigorous and intense debates on the many contentious issues addressed in this House, Mdm Halimah's unfailing calm and measured temperament guided us towards fruitful conclusions.

To ensure that this House continued to meet high standards of effectiveness, Mdm Halimah oversaw changes we introduced to the processes and procedures of Parliament. I have had the privilege of working with Mdm Halimah on the amendments to the Standing Orders of Parliament earlier in May this year. This included increasing the minimum interval between the First and Second Readings of Bills so that Members can have more time to study and scrutinise a Bill. Mdm Halimah also granted the wish of many Members last month by making wi-fi available in this Chamber. Under her personal supervision, we have made the House effectively barrier-free, accessible and an inclusive institution, and welcomed the appointment of our first Member on wheelchair.

Mdm Halimah will be missed by many of us in this House. She has exemplified the principles of fairness and equality, giving everyone the opportunity to make their case to ensure a robust yet civilised debate. Her ability to sit through a long Sitting without a break has never failed to impress us.

Mr Speaker, Sir, Parliament is a cornerstone of our democracy. It discharges the roles of representation, holding the executive to account, and law-making. Mdm Halimah leaves behind a stronger institution. On behalf of this House, I wish Mdm Halimah all the best in her next and even more significant endeavour.

Mr Speaker, Sir, much work lies ahead of us. We are in an unpredictable global climate, where we must ensure that our people and Singapore are resilient and future-ready. We must continue to debate issues that affect our nation with rigour and objectivity. No doubt, there will always be difficult decisions to make. But let us have the courage to speak out and act for what is best for our nation, to fulfil the duties and responsibilities entrusted upon us by the people whom we serve.

Mr Speaker, Sir, we trust that you will preside over the proceedings with wisdom and impartiality. We look forward to your leadership and contributions as the guardian of this Chamber. [Applause]

Mr Speaker: Senior Parliamentary Secretary Muhammad Faishal.

1.11 pm

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministers for Education and Minister for Social and Family Development (Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim): Mr Speaker, Sir, I rise to thank Mdm Halimah Yacob for her contribution as the Speaker to the House and to congratulate you, Mr Speaker, Sir, for being elected as the Speaker to the House.

Many would agree with me that Mdm Halimah has been a trailblazer and an inspiration to many. Despite describing herself as "ponteng queen", she has come in "first" many times: the first female Speaker of Parliament, the first Singaporean to be elected into the International Labour Organization and other firsts. It is a testament to how hard she works, her determination and perseverance to do what she believes is right.

At the same time, Mdm Halimah had, in both her election and re-election speeches in this House, highlighted how she was humbled by the trust and confidence Members had in her. And rightly so. It is this quality of humility that has won her much support and respect from Members of this House and beyond.

I recall her speech to us that, as Parliamentarians, we enjoy Parliamentary privileges which come attached with great responsibilities, and her counsel to use them wisely. And her point to keep our speeches succinct, "as the length of a speech is no indication of its impact", more importantly, that speeches are kept honest, sincere and heartfelt, without the need to play to the gallery.

These words truly represent the very core the Halimah Yacob that we all know −responsible, duty-bound, outcome-driven, honest and sincere, qualities of a distinguished Speaker who has upheld the dignity of this House. I join Members of the House in thanking her for her service and wish her the very best in her future endeavours. It is my personal belief that wherever she ends up in, we can have utmost confidence in her abilities to do well.

Mr Tan Chuan-Jin, Sir, it will take me some time to get used to addressing you as Mr Speaker when we meet in this House or beyond, simply because you have been much more than that over the years. I recall when we were first comrades working together when you took over Chai Chee from part of my former constituency Kaki Bukit. Back then, you already displayed the temperament fitting of your role today. You injected a sense of quiet confidence through your calm disposition and your willingness to listen and understand with much empathy. But you did not stop there. Before we knew it, you had established a network in the community that would strengthen residents' engagement and support for those who needed help.

It was always the people that was on your mind. You earned a remarkable reputation for being extremely "hands-on". You had the charisma and vision to inspire and to bring people and partners to work together towards a common goal. We found in you a champion of fair play. A staff or any other individual being unfairly treated or abused can always count on you to be there for them. We found in you a champion for our sportsmen and sportswomen, and for people with disabilities and special needs. Because you stood up for them.

You did all of that while continuing to run or cycle at many events for a good cause, passionately support the role of fathers in the family at various events, and carry out your duties as a Member of Parliament to your constituents in Kembangan-Chai Chee.

This House can, therefore, expect a Speaker with boundless energy, who will listen and act fairly and impartially. And I am very certain, a Speaker who will, through example, remind us of our duty to the House, and our service to the people of Singapore. Sir, allow me to continue my speech in Malay.

(In Malay): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Madam Halimah's personality makes it easy for people from all walks of life to feel at ease with her. In all the positions that she held, she carried out the responsibilities entrusted to her with total commitment and dedication and always put the interests of the people and Singapore first.

As the Speaker, Mdm Halimah performed her role and responsibilities very well. She was firm. But at the same time, she was fair and just when she did her job, giving opportunity and space for each Member of Parliament to voice their opinions on the issues being debated.

Mdm Halimah succeeded in raising the quality of debate in Parliament. It is also clear that Mdm Halimah ensured that the outcome of debates in Parliament will unite Singaporeans and enhance Singapore's standing in the eyes of the world. In addition, she used her position as the Speaker to promote good relations between Singaporeans and other countries.

As for Mr Tan Chuan-Jin, he has made many contributions in the formulation of policies that had a significant impact on our social service sector. He has the ability to unite different opinions from different groups. Mr Tan is known to be a caring leader and carries out his duties enthusiastically.

One initiative that also deserves mention is the 'Dads for Life' programme. As the Minister, Mr Tan was deeply passionate about the role of fathers in a family's development. In addition, his personal involvement in preschool education also showed how much priority he gives to basic education. Today, many Singaporean families, including Malay families, have benefited from the KidSTART Programme initiated by Mr Tan.

To these two individuals whom I deeply respect, allow me to present a gift in the form of a pantun, as a token of my appreciation and well wishes to them:

The ship captain sailed to Kapas Island,

To receive a cargo of harvested rice;

With responsibility and trust in capable hands,

Singapore remains a prosperous and peaceful paradise. [Applause]

Mr Speaker: Ms Tin Pei Ling.

1.18 pm

Ms Tin Pei Ling (MacPherson): Speaker, Sir, congratulations on being elected as our new Speaker. I am honoured to have this opportunity to speak today.

Allow me to begin by expressing my sincere thanks to former Speaker Mdm Halimah Yacob, who had steadfastly conducted every Parliamentary Sitting since being elected as our Ninth Speaker of Parliament in January 2013.

Throughout Mdm Halimah's term as our Speaker, she allowed fair airing of opinions, ensuring that the voices representing different interests and Singaporeans can be heard, and preserving the diversity and credibility of our Parliament. She certainly also pulled no punches in ensuring that the time limit is observed, that nobody can dominate the airtime, regardless of who was speaking, front or backbenchers alike.

Mdm Halimah's dedication and focus made sure the Parliamentary proceedings were conducted and completed properly, so that legislation and issues of the day can be comprehensively discussed. And, of course, her timely injection of wit and humour always helped to diffuse the occasional awkward moments so that we can return to the real discussions.

In Parliament, Mdm Halimah asserted a dignified presence, commanding respect from every single Member of this House and thereby ensuring order in the House and adherence to the rules of debate. Outside of Parliament and overseas, her representation of our Singapore Parliament is a dignified one, as I have observed how she always projected confidence, protected our national interests and commanded attention from whoever the host may be. Personally, I have always felt very proud to travel with Mdm Halimah because she not only represented Singapore well, but also because I know that deep inside, she had wowed many foreign leaders as our female Speaker.

Indeed, Mdm Halimah is inspiring in many ways. Being elected as the first female Speaker in Singapore, she created history. That she is so distinguished in so many ways, Mdm Halimah is an inspiration to all Singaporean women. And I hope Mdm Halimah will continue to create more firsts in Singapore and continue to inspire Singaporean men and women alike. Once again, thank you Mdm Halimah and wishing you all the best in your endeavour ahead.

Speaker, Sir, today is a special session as we elect and warmly welcome you as our 10th Speaker of Parliament. Parliament is the birthplace of all our laws in Singapore and it is also here where we debate key issues concerning the present and future of Singaporeans and Singapore. Therefore, having a Speaker who is fair, balanced and compassionate is critical to the effective and proper conduct of Parliament. For this is where we will continue to pave the way towards SG100.

Sir, having known and worked with you for years now, as Parliamentary colleagues and when MacPherson and Marine Parade were in the same Group Representation Constituency we are still in the same cluster, I have found you to be a multi-talented leader. Of all the strengths you possess, there are three qualities that I believe position you perfectly as our Speaker.

First, you have a heart of gold. You care about what happens to the people around you and you always keep a lookout for even the smallest or weakest of individuals who may be far from your sight. You would not let anyone be left out. This is evident from your work in the Ministry of National Development (MND), Ministry of Manpower (MOM), Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), and certainly in Kembangan-Chai Chee. You actively engage different stakeholder groups to listen to their points of view, understand their aspirations and challenges to ensure that policies truly worked on the ground and that new laws are fair and balanced and have the intended effect. Many of us were touched by what I would describe as groundbreaking when you equalised maternity benefits for unwed mothers so that their babies can bond with and enjoy the care of their mothers more and have a more equal start in their lives.

In Kembangan-Chai Chee, your down-to-earth approach in serving residents have touched many hearts. You always think about the vulnerable and muster resources to support them. You rolled out several impactful initiatives that benefit the young to the old, such as the social team @ Kembangan Chai Chee, One Community Day, mobile social outreach and Kidzcare. As a believer of inclusiveness and collaboration, you never fail to build community networks and connect with corporates and voluntary welfare organisations to serve the community together. Your team describes you as one who cares to reach out to individuals and take time to hear each one out, that you genuinely care without a qualm. And for all the difference you make, you make sure every resident counts.

Second, you are righteous, fair and balanced. You are not afraid of voicing out when you observe injustice and you will take action to right the wrong, even if that poses political risk to yourself. Equalising maternity leave for unwed mothers is a prime example. On the ground, MacPherson being very near Kembangan-Chai Chee, I often hear about how you manage and resolve issues in a balanced manner. For instance, in addressing the smell issue in one of the markets in your constituency, you conducted house visits to understand residents firsthand and then summoned the agencies to meet you to work out a solution based on residents' needs, while remaining realistic to what the agencies can do.

Third, you have gravitas. Having been an Army General and a member of the Cabinet, you have the experience, confidence and cool to manage any situation, including debates in deadlock. This is important because while there could be disagreements, and there would be disagreements, our Parliament must continue to move forward, not have proceedings stagnate in a stalemate, but achieve a resolution for the benefit of Singapore. And certainly, even in representing our House overseas, your gravitas and bearing will not only impose a dignified presence but also ensure that Singapore will continue to be heard loudly and clearly on international platforms. Sir, if I may, I would like to continue in Mandarin at this point.

(In Mandarin): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Speaker, Sir, congratulations on your being elected as the 10th Speaker of the Parliament of Singapore. Your election as Speaker is supported by all of us. My Parliamentary colleagues and I wish you the best sincerely.

I am honoured to have this opportunity to speak. First of all, I would like to express my respect and gratitude to our former Speaker Mdm Halimah. Over the past four years, she has been managing all matters in Parliament, big or small, and making sure that Parliament proceedings are conducted properly and completed in the set time. She has effectively balanced the interest of different parties and ensured that MPs had enough time and space to air their opinions. Even during heated debates, she was able to manage well and intervene at the right time so that the debate can proceed.

Outside Singapore, Mdm Halimah has also represented Singapore as the Speaker of Parliament and led our delegations to international conferences. She has gone beyond expectation and won many accolades for Singapore. These are all very challenging tasks but she is able to manage them well, and with great ease.

As our first female Speaker, she has not only demonstrated her own capability, but also set a milestone in Singapore's political development. Her success has opened the door even wider for women to participate in politics, giving more confidence to women who are keen to serve the country. Madam Halimah is an excellent leader. Even though she has resigned her post as an MP and Speaker, I still hope that she will create more splendid chapters and continue to contribute to Singapore. We give her our best wishes and hope that she will bring Singapore to greater heights.

Mr Speaker, Sir, you are our much respected new Speaker. Your election also represents our aspirations for Parliament in the years ahead. Parliament is the birthplace of all our laws and an important platform where we debate issues concerning the present and future of Singapore and Singaporeans. It is here where we start our journey towards a more successful 50 years ahead. Hence, we need a Speaker who is fair and compassionate.

Mr Speaker, Sir, having worked with you for the past six years or so, I have found you to be a multi-talented leader. Of all the strengths you possess, there are three qualities that I believe position you perfectly as our new Speaker.

First, you have a heart of gold. You care about people around you and always keep a lookout for even the smallest or weakest of individuals who may be far from your sight. From the MND, MOM to MSF, and in your own constituency, you keep an enlightened attitude by actively engaging different stakeholders, listening to their views and understanding their aspirations and challenges to ensure that policies are truly effective and that new laws are fair, balanced and benefit the people. In your constituency, your down-to-earth approach and the people-oriented programmes have won many hearts and applauses. Obviously, in your eyes, every resident, every life counts and warrants your attention.

Secondly, you are righteous, fair and balanced. You are not afraid of voicing out when you observe injustice, even if that poses political risks to yourself. Equalising maternity leave for unwed mothers and making sure their child receive proper care is a good example. In your constituency, when managing an issue, you would take time to visit residents who are affected and understand the matter first and then summon the relevant agencies to work out a solution based on residents' needs, while remaining realistic to the limitations that the agencies may face. Macpherson is your close neighbour. After observing you for many years, I feel that you have been treating everybody equally and fairly, no matter how vulnerable or powerful they may be.

Thirdly, you have gravitas and can manage any situation in this august Chamber. As the Chief of Army, having been an Army General and a member of the Cabinet, you have the rich experience, as well as the confidence and cool which are not common in ordinary people, to manage any situation, even deadlocks. While there could be disagreements which, in a way can be healthy, but Parliament must not go into a stalemate. We must continue to work hard and move together for the common good of the Singapore people.

Outside Parliament, I believe you will also be able to make contributions by representing Singapore in the international arena and win accolades for Singapore.

(In English): Mr Speaker, Sir, with all these qualities, I believe that you are best placed as our Speaker of Parliament. As the birthplace of all our laws in Singapore, a vital platform where we debate key issues concerning the present and future of Singaporeans and Singapore, this Parliament is where we shape the future of Singapore. As the voices in Parliament become increasingly diverse, we need a Speaker who is fair and balanced but, just as importantly, a Speaker who is caring and compassionate, a Speaker who believes that every individual counts, a Speaker who will inspire an even more compassionate Parliament, where we will continue to pass good laws that will improve the lives of our people.

So, as we continue to look ahead to strive towards another 50 great years for Singapore, I believe, with you as our Speaker of Parliament, we are well placed in that journey ahead. Once again, congratulations, Speaker. [Applause]

Mr Speaker: Hopefully, not for the next 50 years. Ms Chia Yong Yong.

1.32 pm

Ms Chia Yong Yong (Nominated Member): Sir, today marks a new beginning. The well-respected and well-loved Speaker of Parliament had resigned for a Presidential bid to do good together with the citizenry. Stepping into her shoes would be a well-loved and well-respected Minister.

I want to say a few words here because I first want to thank you for what you did for us. But before I thank you, I want to clarify that I actually have a lot to thank Madam Halimah for, but I am not in a position to say very much because I am one of her campaign team members. I do not think that it will be appropriate for me to say too much in Parliament.

Sir, the past week has seen public speculation whether or not Mr Tan Chuan-Jin had been demoted. I have to admit that that was, indeed, one of the first thoughts that came to my mind. And then I begin to think otherwise. So, I have to say I now beg to differ with those views.

Singaporeans have long talked about having a different definition of success. And now, when we have a Minister becoming a Speaker, we say he has been demoted, all because his roles are now more circumscribed because he will be taking a pay cut. Is that how we want to value each other by how much we earn, by the position that we hold?

I do not think it is right for us to do that, and I think it is time for us to also revalue ourselves, relook at how we value one another and how we value our public servants for what they have done and what they will continue to do for Singapore regardless of the office they hold. How can we say that only Cabinet Members can steer Singapore better? What about backbenchers? What about Opposition party members? We all serve because we want to serve the public and no office can limit the passion to serve. No office can limit the talent to make an impact, and any office can be one for exemplary service.

But I have to admit, as I said earlier, that it came as a surprise. In fact, many of my colleagues in the social service sector and I were taken aback at the announcement of, Sir, your departure from the Cabinet, not simply because you were not going to be a Minister anymore but because you were our Minister.

You went beyond discharging your portfolio, you cared for those who were struggling in the Singaporean community. You cared for those who were serving in the social service sector. You understood that it was a long and hard journey for all of us on both sides in the sector. You knew we struggled with limited resources, you supported us and you encouraged us to think out of the box, to relook our limited resources and use them for the greater benefit of our clients. You encouraged voluntarism at the community and corporate levels, and you encouraged us to take responsibility for ourselves. You were a Minister we could go to, to share our troubles and aspirations, and you were our Minister. And for that, if I could depart from technical correctness for that, I want to say, thank you, Minister.

So, have we lost an advocate? I do not think so. Thankfully, I think we have now gained another in Minister Desmond Lee, whilst Mr Tan continues his good work, serving the vulnerable and the disadvantaged, we have one more person to serve the vulnerable and the disadvantaged.

Will your appointment, Sir, as Speaker of Parliament, limit your service and contribution to Singapore? I do not think so. I think you can do more.

As Speaker of Parliament, I have no doubt that you will rule the proceedings with a fair and even hand. The doctrine of Parliamentary privilege allows Parliamentarians to speak without fear or favour, to call to question the decisions and actions of the Government, and to require the Executive to account to the people.

As Singaporeans engaged in more robust debates on the ground, there will be higher and more unstinting expectations for more robust debates in Parliament. Singapore will be well served if Parliamentarians debate on issues vigorously, fearlessly, and I have no doubt, Sir, that you will maintain the dignity of the proceedings and that, with your fairness and your even-handedness, you will see to it that issues are properly debated.

I am confident, Sir, that you will rise to the occasion. I know that you will do your best, do right by Singaporeans, and you will continue to make a difference to Singapore. For that, Sir, I look forward to your leadership. Thank you. [Applause]

Mr Speaker: Mr Vikram Nair.

1.38 pm

Mr Vikram Nair (Sembawang): Mr Speaker, I am honoured to speak here today to congratulate you and to record our thanks for Mdm Halimah who is in attendance here together with her husband Mr Mohamed Abdullah.

Given that you have heard almost all the official languages, I will do my speech in Tamil. So, I will give everyone some time to test our translators.

(In Tamil): [Please refer to Vernacular Speech.] Mr Speaker, I offer my heartfelt thanks to Mdm Halimah for her service as Speaker of this House.

Mdm Halimah has had a long and distinguished career in public service, and I had the chance to get to know her better when we travelled together to Mexico earlier this year. She studied law, but upon graduation, she was more interested in a career in public service rather than in commercial practice and, therefore, interviewed for a position in the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC). That was the start of a long career with the trade unions, where she made a strong reputation for herself representing workers before labour tribunals.

She was initially reluctant to enter politics as she was happy with her role in NTUC, and she mentioned that she had initially declined to attend the tea sessions. It was only after some persuasion from then-Prime Minister and now Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong that she decided to come forward.

She started serving in 2001, along with many of the senior leaders in today's Cabinet. At the time I was first elected in 2011, she was already a veteran MP with a strong reputation, and many were delighted with her promotion to the Ministry of Social and Family Development. Subsequently, when the office of Speaker was vacated, she rose to the occasion to fill it up and has been very even handed in her management of this House, keeping to schedules even as the legislative agenda and Sittings continued to grow.

Once again, she is rising to the call of duty to run for President. I would like to wish her all the best in this endeavour. While it will be a loss to this House, it will hopefully be a gain for Singapore. I look forward to having our first female Head of State, which is a great way to mark the next 50 years of Singapore's journey.

Even as Mdm Halimah leaves us to take on greater challenges, I would like to give my support to the Prime Minister's new nominee for Speaker, Mr Tan Chuan-Jin. I happened to be serving my reservist at Headquarters (HQ) Guards, the unit in which Mr Tan was once involved with, and Mr Tan was leading the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) contingent to Aceh when disaster struck there. He had distinguished himself as a strong, compassionate leader in the Armed Forces.

We both entered politics at the same time, through the turbulent 2011 election, and our group had regular meetings and discussions in the aftermath of that election to decide on the way forward. Mr Tan was very hardworking in his first stint with MOM, and I recall the few times that I sent direct appeals to him, he always paid personal attention to the request and responded, often at small hours of the night.

He has helmed MSF for a relatively short period of time, but has made a deep impact and is fondly remembered there. It appears that duty has called him to take on the vacated role of Speaker, and he has risen to the occasion again. I would like to wish Mr Tan all the very best in this new role as well, as he steers the business of this House in the years to come. [Applause]

Mr Speaker: Mr Christopher de Souza.

1.44 pm

Mr Christopher de Souza (Holland-Bukit Timah): Mr Speaker, Sir, congratulations on your election as Speaker of the House. You have a key role in presiding over the proceedings of the House and I trust that you will do so with an even hand and with fairness to all present. Your openness to different points of view will be an asset to the Speakership of this House. That openness, that characteristic of yours I experienced first-hand when tabling the Prevention of Human Trafficking Bill.

You were the Minister for Manpower then, in 2014, and I had hoped that the definition of human trafficking would not only include sex trafficking but labour trafficking as well. You kindly agreed. But not only that, you extended MOM's support throughout the public consultation process in the lead-up to the debate in Parliament. I remain grateful for that. Thank you.

As a result, we have a more robust legal and enforcement framework to tackle human trafficking on our shores. If I may, Sir, I would like to make one request. While presiding over the proceedings that you, Sir, give latitude, give room, for independent thought and innovative suggestions to flourish in the course of the debates. There is a great deal of goodness and constructive values in many of the suggestions of Members of this House. Members come prepared with highly thought through proposals. It is a sincere hope that you will protect the sanctity of independent thought and constructive values. If harnessed well, they will work towards the betterment of the Singaporeans whom we all serve. Sir, I wish you well in that endeavour and in your new role.

Allow me, Mr Speaker, to speak of two more people.

Mr Charles Chong. Mr Chong is a reliable senior Member many of us look up to and a dependable encourager. It helps that Mr Chong has a wonderfully disarming sense of humour. Twice, you have been called on to be Acting Speaker, once in 2012 and again in 2017. On both occasions, you discharged the duties selflessly. Your dedication is exemplary to many of us who are younger than you. Thank you, Mr Chong. [Applause]

Sir, allow me to record words of thanks to our former Speaker, Mdm Halimah Yacob. Courage, resolve, integrity − these attributes were so evident when you, Madam, stood up to deliver speeches in this House. Those attributes were at work when you took positions for the vulnerable outside the House. I experienced these first-hand. Let me share three instances.

In 2009, Madam, you, Ms Denise Phua and I shared with one another our respective concerns about the Human Organ Transplant (Amendment) Bill. We were concerned about how much money could be paid in reimbursement for loss of earnings of the donor and the inadvertent consequences that may bring. We decided to raise these concerns in Parliament. The whip was lifted. At the end of the debate, all three of us recorded that we could not support the Bill. Ms Denise Phua and you abstained, and I voted no. By your example, I learnt a lesson: if one holds a conviction, have the courage to defend it.

A second example is how, for many years, you pushed for the improvement of workers' lives and livelihoods. When the Government introduced the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme, you requested in 2007 that the $1,500 or below salary per month qualifying threshold not include overtime pay. Why? Because you did not want to penalise the cleaners and security guards who worked overtime to make ends meet. Working overtime would have meant earning a wage slightly higher than $1,500 per month. This would have disadvantaged the worker who worked overtime since there would be no WIS payout for those earning above $1,500. Due to your resolve in this House, the Government was persuaded and modified the qualifying threshold from $1,500 and below to $1,700 and below per month. Low-wage workers who worked overtime benefited as a result.

Third, as Speaker of the House, you took a keen interest in the topics raised by Members. I had sought your consent to file a Private Member's Motion on Strengthening Singapore's Fight against Drugs earlier this year. You kindly gave your consent but went further. You shared your perspective on the need to assist the many families broken by drug addiction, especially the children of drug addicts, for the children are the innocent ones. It was not just another Parliamentary topic for you. You wanted change and provided perspectives to help effect that change. Courage, resolve, integrity. Madam, many of us here will remember you for those attributes. It has been a privilege to have walked alongside you. [Applause]

1.51 pm

Mr Speaker: Hon Members, thank you for your support, your kind words and for electing me as the 10th Speaker of Parliament since our first Legislative Assembly. I would also like to thank members of the public who have expressed support for my nomination when the announcement came out just under a week ago. Indeed, many were surprised and it sparked off some discussion about the role of the Speaker. It is not a bad thing. We do need fellow Singaporeans to be involved to gain a deeper understanding of not just the role of the Speaker but also that of Parliament, its proceedings and how all of us here contribute to making Singapore a better home for our people.

As MPs, whatever our stripes, we need to be accessible, relevant and real. We need to present the voices and needs of our individual constituents, but we need also to stand for a united Singapore − to speak with one voice in a fissiparous world.

The business of Parliament is multifarious. In the First Session of Parliament in December 1965, we saw the presentation of Bills that ensured Singapore's Independence, as well as the first Budget which assured our defence. It also oversaw Bills on the care of orphans and widows, destitute persons, as well as the incorporation of the Singapore Asian Seamen's Club Incorporation Ordinance. Members will also know that in that Session, the Barisan Socialis, which was the main Opposition force in Singapore then, had boycotted Parliament. Among other things, they said that this was because Parliament was giving "legal seal" to our departure from Malaysia, which they saw as a neo-colonialist plot to divide and rule. They also saw it as legal cover for our abuse of public funds and as a platform for propaganda to cheat the people and confuse them.

Today, the Barisan Socialis is no more. But Opposition voices are well-represented and participate fully. We have six Members of the Workers' Party (WP) − with whom the Barisan Socialis merged in 1988 − three WP Non-Constituency MPs, as well as nine Nominated MPs.

In a parliamentary democracy, the legitimacy of the laws we enact rests on the scrupulous attention we, on both sides of the House, pay to the reasoned debate which accompanies the passing of each law. No one doubts that our goal in these Sittings must be to advance the interests of all Singaporeans. I, therefore, see the presence of our Opposition colleagues here in the House today as a strength and a positive step towards constructive contestation of ideas. Such contestation will become even more complex in the future.

Why? Well, we live in an era where information flows almost unbounded and in copious volumes. The world continues to change with ever-accelerating speed. We feel uncertain. The challenge, therefore, is to discern, sense make, find clarity and, ultimately, provide direction. The term "fake news" is oxymoronic because "fake news" is not news but lies. Putting on sheep's coat does not make these falsehoods true. But, yet, we have seen time and again across the world how misinformation can have serious impact on people's lives. At the same time, new platforms allow people's views to be channelled very directly to our leaders. Very involved discourse is also taking place outside this House as people are more aware, they are more informed. This is the environment in which we operate.

Therefore, to be effective, we do need to engage beyond this House − to tap on the collective wisdom that lies without. While we all need to be grounded and engaged, let us be clear − the buck stops here. We need to be the institution that channels and reflects the voices of the people so that we can query, answer and debate in a manner that provides hope and clarity. We need to be a beacon from where Singaporeans can take reference, with confidence, when addressing and understanding issues that matter greatly for our collective well-being.

To be this beacon and to do this well, we need to gain the trust and the respect of the public. We, therefore, need to uphold the honour and dignity of this House in the way we conduct our proceedings. I want to facilitate good free-flowing debate vigorously but, at the same time, maintain mutual respect, to not abuse our Parliamentary privileges and to keep to the Standing Orders. I will be impartial and fair. But I will also be firm.

Before I end, allow me to say a few words about my predecessor.

First, my sincere thanks to Mdm Halimah Yacob for her generosity, advice and support as I assume this appointment. She has more than enough on her plate at the moment but, as is typical of her, she has made time for me in her diary. That is the woman that she is, and, for that, I am grateful.

Last but not least, I look forward to working alongside all of you as your Speaker. Earlier, I had referred to the First Session of Parliament in 1965. At that time, the first Minister for Finance, Mr Lim Kim San, recounted the loss of $70 million in revenue as a result of our Independence. No small amount for Singapore, since our total Budget at that time was only $275 million. But the Prime Minister then recounted it "cheap" as the price of Independence, and he said: "Be that as it may, perhaps it was our good fortune that you get a circumstance where someone with an antique gold Sovereign goes and exchange it for a bag full of sweets. And who are we to explain when we have found ourselves the proud possessor of an antique gold piece?"

We, today, remain the possessor of this gold piece, which we have burnished to a shine and multiplied several times over. Our focus is, and must be, to ensure that these gold pieces work better for Singaporeans, for Singapore, for today and compounded in force for all our tomorrows. Thank you. [Applause]