MPs Advocate for Caregiver Support and Social Mobility in Singapore

On September 25, 2023, Members of Parliament in Singapore engaged in a robust discussion on the need for increased support for caregivers, the importance of keeping seniors active, and addressing social inequality. This dialogue occurred on the fourth day of the debate surrounding President Tharman Shanmugaratnam‘s Address, where over six hours, 21 parliamentarians, including two Cabinet ministers, articulated their perspectives on building a “we first” society that prioritizes collective welfare.

The concept of “we first” resonated throughout the discussions. Acting Minister of Culture, Community and Youth David Neo emphasized that every segment of society, from individuals to corporate entities, must contribute to this vision. Syed Harun Alhabsyi, a Member of Parliament (MP) for the People’s Action Party (PAP), highlighted that fostering such a society would enhance Singapore’s economic competitiveness while promoting unity. He urged that a “we first” society requires active participation rather than passive observation.

Addressing Caregiver Challenges

The need for comprehensive support for caregivers was a prominent theme among the MPs. Elysa Chen (PAP-Bishan-Toa Payoh) pointed out critical gaps in available services, particularly the shortage of day activity centres for adults with disabilities. Many individuals face what is termed the “post-18 cliff,” where support for education, healthcare, and disability services sharply declines after reaching adulthood. Chen attributed these issues to insufficient funding for social service agencies, which struggle to maintain services due to fundraising challenges.

In response to these challenges, MP Valerie Lee (PAP-Pasir Ris-Changi) proposed new leave schemes tailored for the “sandwich generation,” individuals who balance caregiving for elderly parents alongside full-time employment. She stressed the necessity of cultivating workplace environments that appreciate family commitments as much as productivity. “If we are serious about reversing declining fertility rates while also caring for an ageing society, then we must adapt,” Lee stated.

MP Choo Pei Ling (PAP-Chua Chu Kang) suggested integrating caregivers into existing national programmes like Healthier SG Screening, advocating for subsidized health and mental health screenings for caregivers.

Enhancing Senior Engagement

As Singapore’s demographic landscape shifts towards an older population, MPs discussed strategies to keep seniors actively engaged in society. Recent data indicated that 72 percent of seniors have developed the skills to find information online, a significant increase from 53 percent in 2020. Minister of State for Health and Communications Rahayu Mahzam acknowledged that while many seniors are becoming more digitally literate, some still feel overwhelmed by technology.

To address these concerns, the government plans to introduce Digital Clubs at Active Ageing Centres, offering seniors opportunities to learn digital skills in a supportive environment. MP Jackson Lam (PAP-Nee Soon) expressed hopes for expanding community digital clinics to foster peer learning, pairing youths with seniors for mutual benefit.

MP Alex Yam (PAP-Marsiling-Yew Tee) echoed this sentiment, advocating for intergenerational collaboration. He argued that a “we first” society requires understanding and mentorship between generations. Cai Yinzhou (PAP-Bishan-Toa Payoh) proposed forming an “Elder Corps,” similar to the Youth Corps, to harness seniors’ skills and wisdom, thereby re-framing the narrative of ageing as an opportunity rather than a liability.

Confronting Wealth Inequality

The discussion also highlighted the pressing issue of wealth inequality and the need for innovative approaches to narrow the socio-economic gap, particularly among youth from different backgrounds. Senior Parliamentary Secretary Goh Han Yan emphasized the necessity for a fair and progressive revenue system, suggesting that those with more must contribute a larger share to societal welfare. She pointed out that wealth taxes, while present in some European nations, can pose administrative challenges and loopholes.

MP Xie Yao Quan (PAP-Jurong Central) acknowledged that while Singapore’s meritocracy is not without its flaws, it remains crucial for social cohesion. He noted the importance of ensuring that everyone experiences progress, regardless of their starting point.

In a related exchange, opposition MP Fadli Fawzi (WP-Aljunied) challenged the current state of social mobility, to which Xie agreed that improvements are necessary. Meanwhile, MP David Hoe (PAP-Jurong East-Bukit Batok) and MP Gerald Giam (WP-Aljunied) proposed initiatives like “curiosity credits” to assist less privileged youth in exploring their interests and opportunities.

The discussions on September 25 illustrated a collective commitment among Singapore’s parliamentarians to address the challenges facing caregivers, seniors, and those affected by economic disparity. The emphasis on a “we first” ethos underscores a vision for a more inclusive and supportive society.