FOREIGN AMBASSADORS OR ENVOYS IN SINGAPORE (Holding of office in registered societies or associations in Republic)

Inche Rahmat Bin Kenap asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Labour whether foreign ambassadors or envoys in Singapore are permitted to hold office in registered societies or associations in the Republic.

Inche Rahim Ishak (for the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Labour): Mr Speaker, Sir, foreign ambassadors or envoys are normally nationals of the countries they represent. In such capacity, they are entitled to various privileges and immunities, including immunity from criminal, civil and administrative jurisdiction of the receiving state. As such, the holding of office in local societies or associations by persons enjoying such immunities is considered irregular and constitutes interference in the internal affairs of the receiving state.

Inche Rahmat Bin Kenap (Geylang Serai): (In Malay): Sir, I know that Mr S. I. 0. Alsagoff, the Consul-General of Saudi Arabia, is holding a post in one of the registered associations in Singapore. To date, have any steps been taken by the Government in his case?

Inche Rahim Ishak: (In Malay): Appropriate steps will be taken in regard to the person mentioned by the Member for Geylang Serai.