ASSESSMENT OF INDONESIA'S POLITICAL SITUATION

Mr Charles Chong asked the Minister for Home Affairs if he will provide statistics on the number of cyclists killed or seriously injured by vehicles on our roads from 1988 to 1997 compared to the number of pedestrians killed or seriously injured by cyclists on pedestrian walkways over the same period; and whether his Ministry will consider amending the Road Traffic Act to classify bicycles as vehicles.

Mr Wong Kan Seng: Statistics on the number of cyclists killed or injured by motor vehicles on our roads are readily available only for the period 1992-1997. On average, 15 cyclists were killed and 17 seriously injured each year in road accidents (see details below). CYCLISTS KILLED OR SERIOUSLY INJURED IN ROAD ACCIDENTS Year Killed Seriously Injured Total 1992 18 15 33 1993 17 19 36 1994 17 21 38 1995 6 17 23 1996 14 16 30 1997 15 13 28 Average 15 17

A bicycle is currently already classified as a vehicle under the Road Traffic Act, and bicycle riders are deemed to be vehicle drivers. Under both Road Traffic and Pedestrian Crossing Rules, it is an offence to cycle on a footway or pedestrian crossing. Anyone above the age of seven who cycles on a footway or pedestrian crossing can be fined up to $1,000 or jailed up to 3 months.

The number of pedestrians seriously injured by cyclists on pedestrian walkways is negligible, with most sustaining only minor injuries. However, it is still an offence to cycle on pedestrian walkways as there is a possibility of injury to both cyclists and pedestrians arising from collisions. Those who cycle for recreational purposes should go to designated parks where bicycle tracks are available. Those who cycle on roads have to obey traffic rules, like any motorist.

Mr Low Thia Khiang asked the Prime Minister (a) what is the Government's assessment of the political situation in Indonesia and how it could affect the stability of the region; and (b) what is the response of the Government in preparation for the likely scenario.

Prof S. Jayakumar (for the Prime Minister):

(a) The situation in Indonesia is calmer after two weeks of unrest. President Soeharto resigned on the morning of Thursday 21st May 1998. This statesmanlike step was the final act of 32 years of service to his country. President Soeharto's achievements, both in Indonesia and the region, were many and distinguished. They will not be forgotten. In accordance with the Indonesian Constitution, Vice President Dr B J Habibie succeeded President Soeharto.

The transfer of office in Indonesia was accomplished peaceably and constitutionally. President Habibie has said that he would implement political and economic reforms. The Indonesian people will decide on the nature, pace and direction of their political development.

On 22nd May 1998, President Habibie announced his new Reform Development Cabinet. He has retained respected economic ministers, led by Coordinating Minister for Economy, Finance and Industry Dr Ginandjar Kartasasmita. President Habibie also declared his commitment to the programme of reforms agreed with the IMF. The World Bank and the IMF have responded positively. We hope that this will encourage an early return of confidence in the Indonesian economy.

Indonesia's Government faces many challenges. Expectations of political and economic reforms are high. The new Cabinet recognises that its immediate goal is social and political stability to achieve economic recovery. The country's large private debt is now estimated at about US$80 billion. Problems of inflation, unemployment, the difficulty of trade and the reconstruction of the banking system must also be dealt with. Indonesia must also repair supply and distribution networks that were disrupted in the recent unrest, so as to ensure a steady supply of essential goods. The new Government will come under intense pressure to resolve the economic problems quickly.

We wish President Habibie and his new Government success in dealing with the tough challenges facing Indonesia today. We hope that he will succeed in restoring political certainty and confidence, the pre-requisites of economic recovery. A stable and prosperous Indonesia will contribute significantly to regional stability. Indonesia has been a key player in ASEAN since its inception. It has contributed greatly to the steady and peaceful development of ASEAN. We are confident that Indonesia will continue to do so for a long time to come.

(b) Though Indonesia is in political transition, relations between Singapore and Indonesia remain good. Singapore will continue to work with Indonesia, both bilaterally and within ASEAN, to further strengthen our close relations to the benefit of both countries. As Members were told earlier, Singapore will assist Indonesia with its proposed bilateral trade finance guarantee scheme.

As for humanitarian assistance to Indonesia, as Members know, the Singapore Red Cross has launched a campaign to raise S$5 million on 24th March 1998. As of 23rd May 1998 it has already raised S$1.8 million.