LEGISLATION TO CONTROL NOISE POLLUTION

Dr Lee Chiaw Meng asked the Minister for Home Affairs if he intends to introduce legislation to control noise pollution including those generated by in-door electronic amplification system.

Prof. Jayakumar (for the Minister for Home Affairs): Mr Speaker, Sir, the problem of noise pollution has been raised on a few occasions. I have mentioned before that there is no easy solution as it is a complex matter and involves various authorities besides the Police. It is difficult to have a comprehensive set of legislation to cover all aspects of noise pollution.

The Police have been considering proposals to update the law relating to noise nuisance. Under the proposed new provisions, an offence could be committed at any time and place if the noise causes annoyance, inconvenience or offence to members of the public. Other categories of noise not covered or inadequately covered by present laws, such as excessive noise of motorcycles, will also be included. Certain offences relating to noise will also be made seizable offences and punishments will be enhanced. The matter referred to by the hon. Member for Tanah Merah (noise from in-door electronic amplification system) will also be considered in this review. These proposals are being studied in greater detail.

Until such time that we can come up with adequate legislation on noise pollution, the Police can take action against persons who cause serious noise nuisance, such as those who use their indoor electronic amplification equipment in an inconsiderate manner. Action against persons who cause noise nuisance with their electronic amplification equipment can be taken under the Minor Offences Act or under relevant provisions of the Penal Code.

As noise pollution is very subjective, the Police however have been exercising a great deal of discretion in enforcing the law. I am glad to report that members of the public have generally been cooperative and have respected Police warnings to reduce noise levels. However, action will be taken against those who ignore such warnings and deliberately persist in causing annoyance to their neighbours or who are a nuisance to the public.

There is no quick easy answer to the problem of noise pollution in Singapore. Owing to our high population density and the cultural background of our people, community noise is a particularly difficult problem. However, it can be minimized by inculcating in our citizens a greater sense of civic consciousness and consideration for others.