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Debate in Committee of Supply resumed.

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Head I ( cont .) –

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: ( In Malay ): [For vernacular speech, please refer to Appendix A.] Madam, the Malay/Muslim community is now in a better position to further its achievements. I wish to record my appreciation to parents and students who have been working hard to improve their performance in education. The Ministry of Education announced last year that Malay/Muslim students achieved better performance in a number of national examinations. Indeed, our students achieved the highest level of improvements compared to other ethnic groups in the GCE "A" level. This is an achievement we can be proud of and we are very grateful for it. Yet we must also continue to work towards a higher level of success so that the community can stand tall together with the other communities. This performance has been achieved through hard work and the desire to gain knowledge and pursue progress. These concerted efforts have placed our community on the right track for further progress.

In working towards sustained and comprehensive progress at all levels of the community, Malay/Muslim families continue to place emphasis on education and reducing our school dropout rates. Initiatives such as the Empowerment Programme for Girls (EPG) run by MENDAKI have succeeded in reducing the dropout rate. Resulting from the success of EPG, MENDAKI will introduce an

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Engagement Programme for Boys (EPB), beginning March this year. This programme is intended to help male students to be more diligent in education and to imbibe positive values in life.

Madam, besides education, the Malay/Muslim community is also concerned about the importance of efforts to strengthen the institution of the family. To help this group get out of its vicious circle, MENDAKI will be introducing a programme called Enhanced Wrap-Around Care together with the Southeast CDC and Northeast CDC.

On religious institution matters, MUIS will continue to ensure that all the religious needs are taken care of. Last year, I announced that two additional mosques will be built in Woodlands and Jurong West. The new mosque in Jurong West will be built at the junction of Jurong West Avenue 2 and Jalan Bahar. It is expected to be built in 2014/2015. The new mosque in Woodlands is expected to be built in the area bounded by Woodlands Avenue 2 and Woodlands Avenue 12 and it is also expected to be built in 2014/2015. The two mosques are expected to offer synergy in terms of facilities and collaboration with community bodies in their respective neighbourhoods.

Madam, the Malay/Muslim community has, for so long, built close ties with the other communities. Indeed, since the 9/11 tragedy, we have further enhanced our relationship with other communities through programmes conducted by MUIS, Malay/Muslim organisations and the mosques. The Malay/Muslim community is able to practise the teachings of Islam and at the same time, be open and respectful of the other communities. Our efforts towards integration are affirmed by our Prime Minister. I am confident that the Malay/Muslim community will step up their efforts together with the Government and the other communities to further strengthen national solidarity.

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Madam, the Malay/Muslim community has always worked hard to overcome any issue or challenge and to raise its level of achievement. We carry out these efforts together as one big family. I am touched by the commitment shown by community leaders, parents, workers and students to further their achievements and to build a stronger foundation for the sake of the future of our children. I am confident that their efforts and sacrifices will help the Malay/Muslim community realise the vision of a community of excellence.

The Chairman: Any clarifications? If not, Dr Balakrishnan?