Upcoming debates will cover international crisis impact and domestic economic challenges.
SINGAPORE – Singapore’s Parliament is set to discuss two critical topics in its next session: the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict and the rising cost of living affecting citizens.
Global Conflict: Israel-Hamas War
MPs have tabled 34 questions on the Israel-Hamas war, focusing on Singapore’s humanitarian response and its implications for societal cohesion. The conflict began on October 7, with Hamas attacking southern Israel, resulting in over 1,400 deaths and hundreds taken hostage. Israel’s subsequent strikes on Gaza have killed at least 9,000 people, including more than 3,000 children.
MP Vikram Nair (Sembawang GRC) proposed a motion titled “Solidarity, Security, and Peace: The Israel-Hamas Conflict”. He emphasized Singapore’s commitment to a two-state solution and the need to protect multiracial and multireligious harmony. Key issues include:
Alleviating the humanitarian crisis.
Promoting diplomacy to reduce civilian casualties.
Reinforcing religious harmony within Singapore.
The motion also condemns terrorism and violations of international law while calling for the release of hostages and the safety of civilians.
Domestic Challenges: Cost of Living
The Workers’ Party (WP) has filed a separate motion on Singapore’s rising cost of living. Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh (Aljunied GRC) and MP Louis Chua (Sengkang GRC) plan to debate policies to alleviate inflationary pressures on food, housing, transport, and utilities.
WP highlighted public concern over concurrent price increases and the impending Goods and Services Tax (GST) hike to 9% in 2024, which they described as a “crisis.” The party pledged to propose robust measures for easing financial burdens on Singaporeans.
Additional Agenda: Transport and COE Prices
Transport issues, particularly record-high Certificate of Entitlement (COE) prices, are also on the docket. MPs will seek clarity on factors driving the surge and potential policy adjustments.
The upcoming parliamentary session reflects Singapore’s commitment to addressing both pressing international issues and domestic challenges.
