Actions Related to Welfare and Legal Status of Adopted Children Linked to Indonesia Baby Trafficking Syndicate

Ms Gho Sze Kee asked the Minister for Social and Family Development following the convictions in Indonesia of those involved in the baby trafficking syndicate (a) whether the Government has reviewed the status of the children in Singapore linked to the case; and (b) whether any further action is being taken in relation to their legal status or welfare.

Mr Masagos Zulkifli B M M: Singapore authorities are working with the relevant Indonesian authorities to establish the facts concerning each child in Singapore who may be linked to the Indonesian baby trafficking syndicate. This includes information concerning their birth parents, and whether any parent has come forward to seek the child's return. This information will inform the assessment of what is in the best interest of the child, which is a key consideration for the Singapore Courts when deciding the pending adoption applications.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development continues to engage the affected prospective adoptive parents and work with the relevant parties to ensure that the children's care and stay arrangements in Singapore remain stable. Throughout this process, the welfare and well-being of the children remain our foremost consideration.