Female Representation in Statutory Boards

The following question stood in the name of Ms Anthea Ong –

1 To ask the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) how we are doing with our target for 20% female representation in Statutory Boards and listed companies by 2020; (b) what steps are being taken to close the gender salary gap of about 20%; and (c) in view of the upcoming International Women's Day theme of #BalanceforBetter, what are existing imbalances in our gender equality pursuit that we must balance for a better Singapore.

Assoc Prof Walter Theseira (Nominated Member): Question No 1, Sir.

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Social and Family Development (Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim) (for the Minister for Social and Family Development): Mr Speaker, a few of the issues being asked in this Parliamentary Question (PQ) are similar to the issues being raised by Members Prof Fatimah Lateef and Ms Rahayu Mahzam in the COS cuts for MSF. May I have your permission to address the issues together when I make my reply during the MSF COS? I have spoken to the Member Ms Anthea Ong and she is agreeable to this arrangement.

Mr Speaker: I am agreeable also.

Assoc Prof Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim: Thank you, Sir.