Impact of Selective En Bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) on Community Social Capital

38 Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Minister for National Development whether there has been a study done or planned on (i) the degree of preference of Singaporeans to sink deep roots in a local community as opposed to having to move out under the Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS) with no guarantee of relocation in the vicinity and (ii) the erosion of social capital when people who have lived in the area for a long time and contributed to the community move out under SERS.

Mr Lawrence Wong: Under the Selective En bloc Redevelopment Scheme (SERS), residents move en bloc to a new precinct nearby, preserving the existing community ties built over the years. The Housing and Development Board (HDB) has also put in place the Joint Selection Scheme, where up to six households affected by SERS can book their new replacement flats together, to continue living near their old neighbours.

HDB conducts a biennial survey to gauge residents’ level of support and satisfaction for SERS, including the extent to which SERS has impacted their family and community ties. Over the years, our surveys have consistently shown a strong support level for SERS, at 85% or more, with residents affirming benefits, such as having a brand-new living environment, being able to move nearby and with their old neighbours.