Factors Behind 36.2% Increase in Young Inmates in Singapore Prisons in 2025

23 Mr Cai Yinzhou asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what factors drove the 36.2% increase in young inmates in Singapore prisons in 2025; (b) how is the Ministry addressing the corresponding 41% rise in prison assaults linked to adjustment issues among younger inmates; (c) what specific early interventions target at-risk youths before incarceration; and (d) how is the effectiveness of psychology-based programmes being measured to ensure successful rehabilitation and low recidivism.

Mr K Shanmugam: The 36.2% increase in the population of young inmates under the custody of the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) was largely driven by the increase in the number of young inmates incarcerated for commercial crimes, such as unlicensed moneylending and money mule offences.

SPS's assault rates remain low compared to other jurisdictions. Nonetheless, SPS takes every assault incident seriously, and uses a multi-pronged approach to prevent and manage such incidents. This includes Restorative Practice activities which help inmates proactively address sources of inter-personal tension. SPS also leverages technology to detect and respond to incidents swiftly.

SPS recognises that young inmates can face unique challenges, including adjustment issues upon incarceration and weaker self-control, which can result in them resorting to violence more easily. Young inmates with identified risks and rehabilitation needs may undergo tailored psychology-based correctional programmes. These evidence-informed programmes equip them with life skills, such as regulation of emotions, and resisting anti-social peer influence. They also deal with thinking patterns related to violent behaviour and crime.

The programmes are reviewed periodically to ensure that they remain relevant. Their effectiveness is measured based on outcomes, such as the inmates’ motivation to change and attitude towards crime.

Upstream, the National Committee on Preventing Offending and Re-offending steers and coordinates whole-of-Government efforts to reduce crime, including among at-risk youths. For example, under MSF's YouthGO! Programme, staff engage and build rapport with at-risk youths while incorporating interventions to reduce their risky behaviour and bring on board their parents where necessary. Youths arrested for minor offences can benefit from diversionary programmes to rehabilitate them in a community setting. They receive interventions to help them understand the consequences of and take responsibility for their actions, identify triggers and develop self-management plans to control their impulses.