Impact on Tourist Arrivals into Singapore Given Reported Kidnappings by Scam Operators in the Region
Ministry of Trade and IndustrySpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the impact of reported kidnappings by scam operators at regional borders on Singapore’s tourist arrivals, as raised by Mr Gan Thiam Poh and Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui. Minister for Trade and Industry Gan Kim Yong responded that no negative impact has been observed, noting that international visitor arrivals grew 21% to 16.5 million in 2024. The Minister highlighted that Singapore maintains a reputation as one of the world’s safest cities with low crime rates and well-maintained public infrastructure. To sustain this momentum, the government continues to work with the tourism industry to enhance diverse offerings and attract visitors keen on Southeast Asian travel. These strategies aim to position Singapore as a safe, preferred destination while mitigating any negative spillover effects from security concerns in neighboring countries.
Transcript
45 Mr Gan Thiam Poh asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) what has been the impact on the number of tourist arrivals to Singapore as a result of the reported kidnapping of visitors to scam operators operating at the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia; and (b) what more can be done to assure visitors and to continue attracting them.
46 Mr Edward Chia Bing Hui asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry (a) what has been the impact on the number of tourist arrivals to Singapore following reports of visitors being kidnapped by scam operators operating at the borders of Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia; and (b) what specific strategies or initiatives is Singapore implementing to mitigate any negative spillover effects and position itself as a preferred destination for tourists keen on visiting both Singapore and other Southeast Asian countries.
Mr Gan Kim Yong: We have not observed any negative impact of the reported kidnapping of visitors at the border of Thailand, Myanmar and Cambodia, on tourist arrivals to Singapore.
Singapore is widely regarded as a safe and attractive tourist destination. Our tourism sector has recovered steadily with international visitor arrivals increasing by 21% from 2023 to reach 16.5 million in 2024.
We will continue to highlight Singapore’s low crime rate, well-maintained public infrastructure and reputation as one of the world’s safest cities. We will also continue to work closely with the industry to enhance our diverse tourism offerings.