HEAD L - MINISTRY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND WATER RESOURCES

[Mr Speaker in the Chair]

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** Head L - Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources **

The Chairman: Head L - Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources. Dr Amy Khor.

Emerging Environmental Challenges

Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan (Hong Kah): Sir, I beg to move,

That the total sum to be allocated for Head L of the Estimates be reduced by $100.

Sir, the NEA has stated that it aims to reduce CO2 emissions by up to 190,000 tonnes by 2012, by reducing energy wastage and promoting its conservation. In relation to this, I would like to ask the

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Minister to provide us with an update of these efforts and, in particular, whether the Ministry would implement a mandatory energy labelling scheme, at least on all airconditioners and refrigerators, which are guzzlers of energy, and whether the Ministry will be ratifying the Kyoto Protocol as yet another sign to the international community of our earnest efforts and commitment to promote energy efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.

Going forward, what does the Ministry see as other global trends and challenges facing us on the environmental front, and how does the Ministry plan to tackle them?

Sir, Singapore's pole position in the region for its stringent controls with clean air and water and green urban designs is undisputed. However, we will be hard put to say that we have the same high standards of public hygiene and cleanliness or recycling habits. To me, these relate to basic behavioural patterns and social graces. Cumulatively, shaping them is even more important in environmental conservation than mere programmes or campaigns which have limited shelf life.

Every year, after the New Year countdown or the Chingay parade, there never fails to be letters to the Forum pages on the amount of litter left at Orchard Road. In 2004, it was reported that two tonnes of litter were left behind after the Orchard Road Chingay parade. On 31st December last year, it was reported that the litter generated at the Orchard Road New Year countdown amounted to some six kilotonnes! The writer further noted that rubbish was simply thrown to the ground even with the many rubbish bins available.

Sir, we have been trying to tackle the littering problem since the 1970s, but like stubborn stains on white shorts, it refuses

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to go away. I would like to ask the Ministry how it plans to meet this challenge in the coming year.

Sir, another fundamental issue relates to our standard of public hygiene and cleanliness of our public toilets. Since the retreat of SARS, it seems that the standard of hygiene and cleanliness in many public toilets has also retreated, and many of the toilets which have been given the "Singapore OK" mark seems to have k-oed. In fact, the label itself has k-oed, because it is faded and filthy. I would like to ask the Minister whether the Ministry plans to review and revamp the whole initiative to improve the standards of cleanliness and hygiene of our public toilets.

Sir, it is noted that households here do produce less rubbish than in the West, but they lag behind in recycling. It is also noted that whilst the number of homes participating in recycling is high, the volume of recyclables collected is low compared to those overseas. I would like to ask the Minister if the Ministry could look into improving our infrastructure, such as having more recycling bins at convenient locations in housing estates and commercial areas, as well as working with the MND to have flats with separate rubbish chutes for food waste and other recyclables like paper. This would help to improve the participation rate as well as the amount of rubbish recycled. I would also like to ask the Minister, besides educating and encouraging individuals and companies to participate in recycling, what other measures are being taken to reduce the amount of waste produced in Singapore. For instance, what is being done to encourage companies to use recyclable packaging and is there any attempt to reduce the amount of plastic consumption in Singapore?

The Chairman: Prof. Low Seow Chay is not here. Mdm Cynthia Phua.

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Clean Air and Water

Mdm Cynthia Phua (Aljunied): Sir, we have, over the years, promoted Singapore as a garden city, cleaned up our waterways and bright green bins proudly line what were once litter-filled street alleys. I just heard Dr Amy Khor say that some areas are filled with rubbish.

The introduction of the Mass Rapid Transit trains contributed towards a cleaner mode of transport. Today, I understand that the main bulk of fine particles in our ambient atmosphere is from vehicles. These particles are in the form of elemental carbon and from fuel oil combustion in the form of sulphates. One of the main sources of suspended particles or particulate matter, commonly referred to as PM, affects the people's health. The big particulate matter is PM10 and the smaller one is PM2.5. Both PM10 and PM2.5 particles can cause health problems, in particular respiratory problems. Because PM2.5 travels deeper into the lungs and it is made up of things that are more toxic, like heavy metals and cancer causing organic compounds, PM2.5 can have worse health effects than the bigger PM10.

In the US, it was found that PM2.5 was linked to some 95,000 cases of chronic and acute bronchitis. In Singapore, as I understand, we are able to meet the US EPA standards for PM10 but not for PM2.5, which is mainly emitted by diesel vehicles. What efforts are being done to ensure that we can meet the US EPA standards for PM2.5? With more pharmaceutical, chemical and petrochemical plants being set up in Singapore and with the growth of vehicular traffic and new criss-crossing flyovers, the amount of pollution will naturally rise. Singapore is becoming busier and busier with higher people density, from the residents to the ever rising transient tourist traffic. People are becoming more

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affluent and the rise of consumerism also gives rise to the burning of more fuel. Power plants are generating electricity due to higher electricity consumption. More people movement results in higher vehicular traffic. More garbage thrown means more waste for incineration. The pollution situation is going to get worse and worse, and we have to put in a lot of effort before it can get better.

We may need to have an inter-Ministry panel to look into how we are going to cope and to put in place a plan to control pollution before it is too late. What is the Ministry's plan and effort on the control of air quality in our living environment?

A pertinent question after the COS debate on transport makes me wonder whether our small island-state is able to sustain the 3% vehicle increase annually, in terms of the pollution impact to our environment. I know that LTA and NEA are already working closely, and on 1st October 2006, we will adopt the Euro IV emission standards for all diesel vehicles registered henceforth. My suggestion is that the MEWR should work closely on an inter-panel basis, to encourage and persuade, and also to ensure that our economic and social activities of all the other Ministries should not cause undue stress to our environment.

I am of the opinion that NEA should also rope in the health officials to monitor the relationship between pollution and the rise in, say, cases of people falling ill from respiratory and other diseases. I think there is more to public and private relationship, and the Ministry has to look into inter-Ministry policies and guidelines on other economic activities as well.

Climate Change

Dr Geh Min (Nominated Member): Sir, climate change is a key challenge on the

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global agenda. Since the Kyoto Protocol came into effect a year ago, there has been a significant shift in scientific, political and public opinion, galvanised by events such as hurricanes Katrina and Rita and escalating oil prices.

The question now is no longer "Is climate change happening?", but "What are we doing about it?" Even countries which have not ratified the Kyoto Protocol are coming up with strategies to prove they are doing something. An effective energy policy must include climate change issues - and the possibility of a carbon tax or carbon trading - on its agenda.

I would like to ask the Minister how is Singapore playing its part in this global challenge. What are our present and future strategies for improving energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gases? How does the Government see its role in the local, regional and global arena in meeting this challenge? Will Singapore be a leader, a follower or a slacker?

With regard to the private sector, does the Government intend to lead or is it waiting for the private sector to take the initiative? In fact, several Singapore companies have already leveraged on the huge potential in the carbon services sector, cutting-edge technology and alternative fuels. I believe that they have already taken the initiative. But are Government organisations working in partnership with the private sector, both MNCs and SMEs, to support them in tapping into this growth market?

Are we looking at areas of significant knowledge gaps, eg, environmental management and environmental law as well as environmental R&D where the potential for jobs is increasing rapidly? Will we build expertise in these areas? How much of our R&D funds will be invested in clean development mechanisms? Environmental R&D is one of the three growth areas identified by the

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Prime Minister in the National Research Foundation. Does this include energy efficient and alternative fuel technologies?

With regard to the people sector, what is the Government doing to raise public awareness and change mindsets? Will Government walk the talk in this area? I quote Sir David King, the chief scientific adviser to the UK government: "We must initiate a massive mindset change that is supported by governments in the forms of policy change and fiscal incentives."

Finally, are different Government agencies approaching this challenge in an integrated way? Are we studying Clean Development Offices and other government regulatory mechanisms and policies around the world so that we can determine the most appropriate and effective climate change policy for Singapore ?

If Singapore aspires to be a global city , we must face global challenges, and climate change is the greatest of these challenges.

12.30 pm

The Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim): Mr Chairman, Sir, I would like to thank Dr Amy Khor, our GPC Chair, and other Members for their questions and suggestions. I will try my best to answer all their queries. If we cannot, we can probably follow up after the COS.

Sir, let me begin by highlighting some of the key environmental challenges facing us.

As noted by Members, it is increasingly clear that climate change or global warming is one of the major environmental challenges of our time. Extreme weather patterns in 2005 have threatened lives and disrupted economies

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in many parts of the world. Increasing scientific evidence suggests a link between global warming and such natural disasters. This calls for greater efforts around the world to slow down or reduce the emission of greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming.

In the area of public health, there was a resurgence of dengue cases throughout the South-East Asia region, including Singapore. Through the combined efforts of the Government and the community, we succeeded in bringing the dengue situation under control very quickly. From a peak of 713 cases in one week in September last year, this has fallen to an average weekly of 66 for January 2006. So I wish to take this opportunity to thank the many grassroots, volunteers, officers and residents who have supported my Ministry's efforts in this area.

Worldwide concern over environmental issues, however, also means that there is increasing demand for better and more efficient environmental and water technology and services, and this presents us with opportunities. My Ministry has been a pioneer in increasing private sector involvement in the provision of environmental and water infrastructure and services. In 2003, we awarded a public-private partnership (PPP) contract for the first desalination plant in Singapore, followed by a PPP contract for a NEWater plant, and one for Singapore's fifth incineration plant last year. Besides boosting our water supply and improving our environmental services, such partnerships have helped companies to gain valuable expertise and track record for expansion overseas. We can also contribute to the enhancement of environmental well-being in other regions.

Sir, we have also made good progress in job creation in the environmental sector. Between April last year and February this year, NEA, together with the

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Town Councils, Workforce Development Agency, NTUC and environmental companies, has successfully matched more than 580 workers with jobs paying more than $1,000 a month. NEA and its partners were also given the Job Recreation Programme "Top Achiever Award" last month by NTUC for its efforts in this area.

Our various environmental efforts have ensured that the quality of Singapore's physical environment remains good. Singapore has continued to be highly rated in the 2005 annual surveys by Condé Nast Traveller and the Political and Economic Risk Consultancy (PERC). In fact, under the PERC survey, Singapore scored particularly well for our air quality.

Another example of international recognition of our excellent environmental efforts is the decision by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to host the annual award ceremony of the "Champions of the Earth" Award in Singapore for the next three years. The first one will be held next month. As the UNEP Executive Director, Mr Klaus Toepfer noted: "Singapore is a natural choice for such a global environmental event, as it is a country that has become an inspiration for other nations striving to achieve the goal of sustainable development". A high-quality living environment benefits all. It also bodes well for our tourism and business sectors, where Singapore's reputation as a global city with a clean and healthy environment will continue to attract visitors and investments to Singapore.

We must not forget that our high-quality environment is the result of years of sustained effort by individuals, organisations and the community. Many are doing their part in recycling, conserving water and adopting energy-efficiency practices. In a recent public

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perception survey carried out by my Ministry, a large majority of respondents were positive about the state of our environment. 79% rated Singapore's state of the environment as "good" or "very good", and 64% rated it as better than that three years ago. In the same survey, more than 90% said they can play a part in energy and water conservation. My colleagues and I are heartened by this positive feedback and keen interest, and we encourage all to keep up these efforts in sustaining a clean and healthy environment.

Sir, indeed, we cannot take our clean environment for granted. As Dr Khor had mentioned earlier, littering remains a key environmental challenge we need to address. Discarded containers such as drink cans are among the top three sources of mosquito breeding in residential estates. Litter can also blemish the image of our cityscape and clog up our waterways. From the public perception survey, cleanliness of public areas such as roads, drains and canals is identified as the top environmental concern.

NEA has been working with the community to promote anti-littering behaviour. In 2005, 19 national events such as the National Day Parade and the Singapore River Regatta, as well as another 230 community events, implemented litter-free initiatives. These included providing adequate litter bins during the events and reminding the participants on the proper disposal of their litter. Close to 120 primary schools have also participated in the Litter-Free School programme, where students are encouraged not to leave unwanted items around.

While we continue with public education and enforcement efforts, NEA will extend the Litter-Free Campaign to include Litter-Free Premises this year. We will work with operators and users to

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keep premises frequented by the public such as hawker centres and coffeeshops litter-free.

Dr Khor has correctly pointed out that waste management is another one of our key environmental challenges. We are on track to achieve our target, which is to recycle 60% of the total waste generated by 2012. Our recycling rate in 2005 was 49%, up from 40% in 2000. We are setting up centralised recycling bins in all HDB estates by 2007 to encourage more household recycling.

Beyond recycling, however, we can do more to reduce waste at source. Last month, we launched the campaign to reduce excessive use of plastic bags and encourage the use of reusable shopping bags. The response from the public as well as from retailers, including the major supermarket chains, has been encouraging.

Sir, another major type of waste is packaging waste, as noted by Dr Khor, which makes up 35% of household waste in Singapore. My Ministry is working with manufacturers and distributors to develop a voluntary agreement to reduce the amount of packaging used and enhance the recovery of packaging materials. To date, several major food and beverage companies and the Packaging Council of Singapore have indicated their interest to participate in this proposed agreement.

I have sketched out the key environmental challenges facing Singapore and what my Ministry is doing to ensure that we continue to enjoy a high-quality living environment. Singapore's blueprint on tackling these environmental challenges is spelt out in the Singapore Green Plan 2012, which was released in 2002. Last year, we embarked on a review of the Green Plan to update its targets and action programmes, and I am pleased to inform the House that the revised Green Plan will be made public

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later this month. The revised Singapore Green Plan is a product of extensive consultation between the Government and the private and people sectors. I am happy to see Singaporeans taking greater ownership of our environment.

Sir, as I have mentioned earlier, climate change or global warming is one of the major global environmental challenges of our time. Both Dr Amy Khor and Dr Geh Min have pointed this out. There is general scientific agreement that greenhouse gas emissions from human activities have contributed to climate change effects such as rising global temperatures, rising sea levels and extreme weather. There is also agreement that the international community needs to take concerted action to deal with climate change before it is too late.

Singapore's commitment to climate change is consistent with our good record on environmental issues. We have been a signatory to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change since 1997. Last year, in this House, I mentioned that we were studying the timing of our accession to the Kyoto Protocol, which is the primary international agreement on climate change. Sir, I am pleased to inform Members that Singapore will be acceding to the Kyoto Protocol in 2006.

Singapore intends to engage in the ongoing international debate on how to manage greenhouse gas emission levels in a manner that is not harmful to our economic growth. By balancing environmental quality and sustainable economic development, Singapore will continue to prosper economically and provide a high-quality environment for residents, investors and visitors.

Singapore will continue to take actions domestically to address climate change. Dr Khor and Dr Geh Min have asked about our efforts to reduce greenhouse gas

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emissions. In Singapore, the primary greenhouse gas is carbon dioxide generated from energy use. A range of measures has therefore been adopted to improve energy efficiency and increase cleaner energy usage.

In 2002, NEA introduced a voluntary Energy Labelling Scheme for air-conditioners and refrigerators. The labels provide energy performance information to help our consumers choose energy-efficient models and thus save on their utilities bills. As of January 2006, 121 air-conditioner and 77 fridge models were labelled, representing 27% and 20% of available models respectively. However, as most air-conditioner and fridge models are not labelled, the voluntary scheme remains limited in its ability to help our consumers.

Sir, we will thus make it mandatory for all air-conditioners and refrigerators to carry energy efficiency labels from mid-2007. I see Dr Khor smiling. This, as Mdm Cynthia Phua has also pointed out, would allow consumers to make more informed choices on appliances whose energy consumption forms a significant part of their utilities bill. My Ministry is now working with suppliers to ensure a smooth transition to the mandatory labelling scheme. We will also study the possibility of expanding the labelling scheme to include other energy-intensive appliances such as clothes dryers, dishwashers and water heaters.

Mandatory labelling will complement the existing domestic measures on climate change. For example, to promote energy efficiency in buildings, NEA launched the Energy Smart Buildings Scheme together with NUS in December 2005. This is the first energy-efficient building label in Asia. To promote the purchase of green vehicles such as compressed natural gas (CNG) and hybrid vehicles, we have

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doubled the Green Vehicle Rebate and extended it till 2007. At end February 2006, after just two months of the extended rebate, there were 208 green vehicles on the road, more than double the number last year. Motor traders have started marketing green vehicles to car buyers and reported positive response. We can thus expect to see more green vehicles on the road. So, to answer Dr Geh Min's question, we are taking the lead, given our context in promoting energy efficiency in Singapore.

There are also opportunities arising from action on climate change, as noted by Dr Geh Min, and Singapore should capitalise on these. There is now growing worldwide demand for low-carbon technologies and fuels. We are thus encouraging companies to explore alternative energy technologies such as solar energy, as well as to test-bed emerging technologies such as fuel cells. Dr Geh Min has asked whether this will be the focus for NRF. As I replied earlier in the House to one of the questions, I will leave it to Dr Tan, as Chairman of NRF, to announce this. But in the cut on environmental technologies, I will update the House on the efforts by my Ministry to work together with the NRF to grow the environmental industry in Singapore.

Sir, under the Kyoto Protocol, developed countries can buy carbon credits to help meet their emission-reduction targets. As a result, carbon trading markets such as the EU Emissions Trading Scheme have developed. To look at opportunities relating to emission reduction and carbon trading, IE Singapore has helped form an iPartner consortium of Singapore-based environmental technology companies. This consortium is led by Asia Carbon, one of the first-movers in the carbon emissions trading industry. I hope all businesses and industries, in playing their part in addressing climate change, will also view such actions as opportunities.

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My Ministry has also been working with other agencies, as noted by Dr Geh Min, Dr Khor and Mdm Cynthia Phua, to develop a holistic climate change strategy that actively engages the people and private sectors in climate change action. The climate change strategy will explain how Singapore can address climate change in an environmentally and economically sustainable way. It will examine four key prongs of action: adaptation to climate change, mitigation of our carbon emissions, raising awareness on climate change as well as competency building. This strategy forms a key focus area of the Singapore Green Plan.

In the coming months, we will be carrying out public consultation on the climate change strategy, to gather ideas and feedback on Singapore's proposed response to climate change. I will strongly encourage all members of the public to offer their views.

However, Sir, to contribute to climate change action, the public first needs to understand the causes of climate change and how it affects our lives.

My Ministry's public survey shows that about one in two persons still have not heard of climate change or global warming.

12.45 pm

So NEA will be working with the Singapore Environment Council to roll out a public awareness programme on energy efficiency and climate change in April. This programme aims to raise its awareness on the link between energy use and climate change. It will also show how households and motorists, by making simple adjustments in their daily habits, can reduce energy use, thus saving money and reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. This programme, I hope, addresses Dr Khor's question on

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promoting energy conservation and efficiency practices in Singapore.

In contributing to the global climate change effort, my Ministry will continue to explore other programmes to improve Singapore's energy efficiency over time.

Sir, let me turn to the issue of particulate matter (PM) 2.5, which was raised by Mdm Cynthia Phua. Energy use in Singapore is also linked to air quality, as the burning of fossil fuels emits not just greenhouse gases but other air pollutants. While our ambient air quality generally compares favourably with other cities in the world, it was right for Mdm Cynthia Phua in highlighting the emerging issue of PM2.5 or particulate matter finer than 2.5 microns as a key challenge. PM2.5 has been linked to respiratory diseases and heart diseases. Singapore's ambient level of PM2.5 today is 21 microgram per cubic metre which is above the standard of 15 microgram per cubic metre set by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Unless we do something, our ambient PM2.5 level will increase further, largely due to vehicular growth, as noted by Mdm Phua.

Sir, we reduce PM2.5 levels by replacing diesel vehicles with CNG vehicles which emit negligible amounts of PM2.5. This is why we have enhanced and extended the Green Vehicle Rebate for CNG vehicles and why CNG taxis will continue to be exempt from the special tax until December 2007. To improve CNG support infrastructure, NEA has also provided $2 million to support the building of three more refuelling stations across the island this year. We will continue to work with our public and private partners to promote measures that contribute to better air quality.

Sir, I think I have addressed most of the issues.

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Water Management and Conservation

Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan: Sir, I commend the great strides the Government has made in the area of water technology, extracting every drop of water out of the very little we have from every conceivable source towards sustainable water management.

Sir, now that we have already turned on our fourth national tap, which is desalination, I would like to ask the Minister to comment whether we can one day be truly self-sufficient for our water needs and no longer need to import water from elsewhere. In addition, to help ensure that Singapore has sufficient water and at affordable cost, I would like to ask the Minister if there are any initiatives to further reduce our domestic consumption of water on a per capita basis. Would the Government make it mandatory for all flush systems to be switched to the water saving dual-flush low-capacity cisterns? Furthermore, with some low-income households being unable to pay their water bills, how can the Ministry help particularly such households, to reduce their water consumption and, hence, their water bills?

The Chairman: Prof. Low Seow Chay is not here. Dr Ong Chit Chung.

Water Policy

Dr Ong Chit Chung (Jurong): Sir, over the years, Singapore has diversified its resources of water supply. We will not be negotiating with Malaysia for extension of one of the water agreements when it lapses in 2011 - I refer to the 1961 Water Agreement. I therefore wish to ask the Minister on the success of our water diversification programme and whether in the long run, we ourselves can be fully self-sufficient and self-reliant in water supplies.

Sir, with the Marina Reservoir, we will have urban catchment areas for

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water. It is good to enlarge our water supplies. Last Sunday, I had the privilege of taking a cruise by boat of the Marina area, and it is beautiful. We must keep it beautiful. We must ensure that the water collected is of high quality and is usable for drinking and recreational purposes.

Lastly, I also wish to ask the Minister how successful is our water conservation effort in reducing water consumption in Singapore.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, I wish to thank Dr Amy Khor and Dr Ong for their questions. 2005 has been a significant year in Singapore's water history. In September 2005, our Prime Minister turned on our fourth National Tap with the opening of SingSpring's desalination plant in Tuas. Our first three National Taps are water from local catchment, imported water from Johor, and NEWater. I am pleased to inform the House that our ongoing projects to increase supply from our local reservoirs are progressing well. By 2009, when the various reservoir schemes are completed, our catchment area will increase from half to two-thirds of Singapore's land area.

Dr Ong Chit Chung asked about our strategy to secure sufficient water for Singapore. Sir, with all four National Taps now in place, we are well-placed to meet our future water needs. If need be, Singapore can be self-sufficient beyond 2061. Besides ensuring a sustainable supply of water, we will also continue to uphold high standards of water quality, water supply security and reliability.

PUB will continue their stringent Water Quality Monitoring Programme, involving both PUB's and external laboratories. We will also continue to engage an International Audit Panel to provide independent reviews on PUB's management of water quality.

Sir, everyone of us needs to play our part to ensure that the rain water

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collected in our network of drains, canals and rivers is free of litter and pollution. As more and more of Singapore's land is utilised as catchment areas, pollution caused by people and industrial discharge is likely to find its way into the reservoirs. It is important that we minimise such pollution.

Sir, as noted by Dr Ong, the Marina Reservoir once completed will be a freshwater lake which will be created with the completion of the Marina Barrage. While we are confident that the raw water collected can be treated to high drinking standards with advanced membrane technology, the challenge, as noted by Dr Ong, will be to ensure that the water is good for recreational and other lifestyle activities. Once the Marina Barrage is built, the basin will be free from the influence of the ocean tides and ideal for various water activities. So we need to ensure that water flowing into the basin is not polluted.

PUB is working together with other agencies to draw up a comprehensive programme to tighten pollution control, and with industries on housekeeping measures to manage pollution. In 2006, we will reinforce our efforts in two key areas. Firstly, we will continue to upgrade the sewerage network system to minimise sewer leakages. Secondly, PUB is working with the construction industry to adopt earth control measures such that silt from construction sites does not end up in our reservoirs. Concurrently, we will also step up enforcement to deal with recalcitrant offenders.

Sir, as we continue with our efforts to diversify and increase our supply of water, we must concurrently pursue conservation strategies to manage water demand effectively. Both Dr Khor and Dr Ong have asked how we can further encourage water conservation.

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PUB adopts a multi-pronged approach in managing water demand through pricing, mandatory water conservation requirements and encouraging voluntarism. This strategy has worked as our per capita domestic water consumption has decreased from 176 litres per day in 1994 to 160 litres per day in 2005.

There is however room to do more. Following feedback from the Singapore Green Plan (SGP) 2012 review process, PUB will set a new target to lower our per capita domestic water consumption to 155 litres per day by 2012. To achieve this target, PUB will be rolling out additional new initiatives in 2006.

Sir, let me first update the House on our existing programmes. Our ongoing Water Efficient Homes and Water Efficient Buildings programmes have been very successful. In our recent public survey, 87% of Singaporeans indicated that they practise water conservation at home. A further 231 commercial and industrial buildings and premises joined our Water Efficient Buildings programme in 2005. In July 2005, PUB launched the Water Detective Programme to educate primary school students on how they should conserve, value and enjoy water. We will continue with these efforts to spread the water conservation message.

In addition to the existing programmes, PUB will roll out a new programme in 2006 called the "10-Litre Challenge". This programme aims to get every individual, you and me included, to reduce daily water consumption by 10 litres. The "10-Litre Challenge" programme will comprise various initiatives, such as water volunteer groups, a labelling scheme for water-efficient appliances, and promoting the use of dual-flush low-capacity flushing cisterns (LCFCs). Allow me to elaborate.

Firstly, PUB is working with the Singapore Environment Council to set up

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a dedicated web portal to show how easy it is to save 10 litres of water a day. For example, I was told that just by reducing shower time by one minute, each person can save up to nine litres of water.

Secondly, PUB is working with PA and CDCs for grassroots organisations to form water volunteer groups. These water volunteer groups, supported by PUB officers, will conduct visits to educate households on water conservation practices and help them install water saving devices. The water volunteer groups will also visit lower-income and needy families to help them save on their water bills.

Thirdly, we will put in place a voluntary water efficiency labelling scheme for water fittings and appliances by the end of this year. Like energy efficiency labels, water efficiency labels will enable consumers to make better informed choices before purchasing items like washing machines and flushing cisterns.

Fourthly, PUB is looking into the mandatory installation of dual-flush low-capacity flushing cisterns (LCFCs) in all new buildings, as well as existing buildings undergoing renovations by end 2009. Compared to single-flush cisterns, the dual-flush models use less water as they allow users the choice of a half-flush versus a full-flush. Based on a market study, dual-flush and single-flush types cost almost the same. HDB will be carrying out pilot projects to install dual-flush LCFCs in flats for selected HDB Main Upgrading Programmes (MUP).

Dr Amy Khor also asked how we are helping low-income families so that they have a constant supply of water. I have earlier mentioned the Water Efficient Homes Programme and the Water Volunteer Groups, and how they would

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visit lower-income and needy families to help them save on their water bills. For example, volunteers from the Sunlove Home Neighbourhood Link and Indus Moral Care visit needy senior citizens in South East and Central CDCs respectively to help them install water saving devices and share with them water saving habits.

For households that are in arrears, PUB has made arrangements with SP Services to offer instalment plans for households to settle their utilities bill arrears over a period of time. Instead of having their water supply cut, PUB reduces the flow rate of water to these households by installing flow restrictors. This enables such households to continue to have access to water for their basic needs.

Besides utilities rebates provided under the Utilities Save (U-Save) Scheme, CDCs also offer financial assistance to help low-income and needy families offset their utilities bills. All these measures will help to ensure that low-income families in Singapore are not left behind.

Environmental and Water Technologies

Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan: I am pleased that the environmental and water technology development has been identified as one of two key areas of focus for the $5 billion R&D Trust Fund under the NRF. I understand that the environmental and water technology sector is forecast to grow by 10%-12% a year in the area of water technologies. Since 2001, 10 groups under the PUB have been studying areas like membrane technology, water and used water treatment. PUB also provides facilities and on-site support to private companies for testbeding initiatives. In line with the key thrust of the NRF, I would like to ask what the Ministry's plans are for R&D into environmental and water technologies and what other aspects it would be looking into. How would the Ministry encourage

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private sector participation in this area of research and will collaborate with them so that the private sector can also benefit from this growth sector? How can the Ministry encourage and help our environmental and water sector develop and expand abroad?

Mr Othman Haron Eusofe (Marine Parade): Sir, I would also like to raise some questions on the environmental and water technology sector. I think this is one sector which the Prime Minister has identified in his Budget Statement. This is a sector which will bring about good growth prospects and also perhaps good employment opportunities for our people.

Sir, I would like to ask the Minister what are the Ministry's plans to facilitate the development of environmental and water technologies

and expertise. I think there is also scope to tap on opportunities to export Singapore's water and environmental technologies and expertise.

1.00 pm

Sir, on the development of the water industry, following the successful involvement of Hyflux in the supply of desalinated water, do the Ministry and the PUB have plans to involve more companies in the private sector in water projects and initiatives?

Sir, I had also wanted to ask some questions on sustainable water management and conservation, but the Minister has already replied most comprehensively. But let me add that the public has also an important part to play to be more disciplined and to have good water consumption habits. They will benefit, because they will receive smaller water billings.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, I would like to thank Dr Amy Khor and Mr Othman Haron Eusofe for their questions on environmental and water technologies.

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Sir, both environmental and water technologies have played a significant part in our efforts to enhance our environmental and water resources, and to sustain the high environmental standards that Singapore enjoys today.

Sir, the National Research Foundation (NRF) has identified Environmental and Water Technologies (EWT) as one of the two new areas for strategic research and development initiatives that would generate economic benefits for Singapore. My Ministry is working closely with the NRF to further develop plans to grow the environmental and water technologies sector.

We will intensify our efforts to attract global research laboratories and companies to set up their operations in Singapore. We will offer more Government facilities for companies to test and try out their new technologies. Through the NRF, we intend to create a pool of specialist manpower, such as engineers, researchers and technicians, to support the increased R&D work. By doing these, we will strengthen Singapore's position in applied water and environmental research, as well as Singapore's ability to commercialise and use the new technologies. We will also build up our capabilities in the area of basic research so that Singapore will be better placed to develop the next generation of cutting-edge technologies.

The Public Utilities Board (PUB) has ensured that Singapore has enough water to sustain its growth and development through our Four National Taps strategy. In doing so, Singapore turned weakness into strength, and is now a growing water hub, a recognised leader in adopting new water technologies and in integrated management of water resources.

Sir, our efforts have not gone unnoticed by the international community. I am pleased to announce that at the

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2006 Global Water Awards held in Dubai last evening, PUB won the prestigious Water Agency of the Year award. This award by the Global Water Intelligence Magazine is a prestigious symbol of achievement in the global water industry. PUB won the award against competition from reputable water agencies from the UK, US and Saudi Arabia. Our homegrown company Hyflux was also named the Water Company of the Year. These awards reaffirm the good work put in by PUB and our industry partners in ensuring a sustainable water supply for Singapore.

In the area of water technologies, PUB is working with companies and research institutes to test the use of new membrane systems to treat used water to further enhance our water sources. The Membrane Bio-Reactor (MBR), the Membrane Distillation (Memstill) and the Variable Salinity Plant (VSP) are just three examples of recent technological advances which have the potential to drive down the cost of water production, enhance our water sources, and provide Singapore with a leading edge in the global water industry.

Sir, we have also been promoting applied research and test-bedding of emerging environmental technologies in Singapore through the Innovation for Environmental Sustainability (IES) Fund. One project supported by the IES Fund is the development of a process by GPac Technology (S) Pte Ltd to produce pallets from recycled horticultural and wood waste instead of timber. We hope that more companies will come forward and tap on the IES Fund to test new and innovative technologies in Singapore.

Sir, both Dr Amy Khor and Mr Othman asked about the private sector participation in the environmental and water sectors. My Ministry has been helping to build up the companies' experience and

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track record to expand overseas. Through the Public-Private Partnerships projects that I mentioned earlier, companies have built up plant operation and maintenance experience, and can now offer their services as a more complete package to potential clients. Members may have read that some of our environmental companies are bidding for projects overseas, including the Middle East and China.

To further develop the water industry, my Ministry will explore the possibility of giving the private sector a larger role in the supply of NEWater to the Kranji cluster. This will be studied in greater detail in the coming months before finalising the plan.

In addition, we leverage on Singapore's strong networks and ties with other countries to facilitate the companies' expansion abroad. We have strong government-to-government links, for example, with ASEAN, China, the Middle Eastern countries and India. IE Singapore also has strong networks and links with potential overseas partners. We have also been organising business missions for environmental and water companies. My Ministry will continue to support and encourage our water and environment companies venturing overseas.

Green Procurement

Dr Geh Min: Sir, I am delighted to hear the Minister's announcement that we will be acceding to the Kyoto Protocol this year. I know that the Government does not regard this as an empty gesture, but a commitment backed by firm action.

Many countries have a governing legislation that includes the procurement of environmentally sound technology and products based on their proven track records and endorsements, so that the public sector is required to request for

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products under an Eco Label category within its tender requirements. Many of these products and technologies are affiliated to Singapore's Green Labelling Scheme, and a number of foreign companies based in Singapore have also already committed to integrating such practices into their businesses here, eg, Fuji and Xerox. But there is still no official policy in the public sector yet for promoting the procurement and use of environmentally sound products and technologies. Why?

Commitment and support from the Government would promote green procurement practices in the private and people sector. It would lead to the increase of imports and local development of more eco-friendly products and technology. It could propel the expansion of the range and quality of such products locally and promote the export of eco-friendly products to external markets. It will also give greater substance and an additional dimension to Singapore's clean and green image by going one significant step further. By taking the lead for sound eco-friendly practices, the Government agencies will enhance their credibility and Singapore's reputation, both locally and abroad.

The Minister Mentor's vision of a clean and green Singapore as good for business, good for people and good for the environment pre-empted the triple-bottom line of an economically profitable, socially responsible and environmentally sustainable practice. But while visions are timeless, their interpretation and implementation need to be reviewed regularly to remain relevant to the changing global environment and to new challenges. In today's context of global warming, limited supply of fossil fuels, and rising costs of energy, "clean and green" requires new mindsets, policies and practices.

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I believe that the introduction of a Green Procurement Policy in the public sector is an obvious one - low-hanging fruit that is in our garden. Singapore may be clean and green, but there are some "black holes" in our green image, and one of these is our lack of a green procurement policy in the public sector.

Public Health and Dead Birds

Dr Tan Sze Wee (Nominated Member): Sir, before I start, I would like to declare my interest as the CEO of a diagnostic company developing rapid tests for Avian flu.

My question relates to the recent world-wide fears about the emergence of bird flu in the region. Does the Ministry have safety guidelines for workers on how to deal with the disposal of dead birds found in public areas, such as roadsides, schools, parks and other public places? The reason is because the current outbreak is primarily in migratory birds that have been propagating the Avian flu. In particular, do these guidelines dovetail with our national H5N1 flu surveillance efforts? Does the public have to be educated on the safety guidelines for handling dead birds as well?

Sir, I reiterate my concern, as we cannot afford not to be too careful, what with the recent bird flu outbreaks in the neighbouring countries and Singapore's situational position.

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for the Environment and Water Resources (Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee): Mr Chairman, Sir, I would like to thank Dr Geh Min and Dr Tan for their questions.

Dr Geh Min has asked about green procurement in the public sector. We recognise that green procurement can offer environmental benefits and lead to

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greater efficiency and savings. Hence, we welcome the use of green products and services, and encourage the adoption of green procurement practices, not just in the public sector but throughout Singapore.

In this regard, Sir, the Government has put in place a number of measures to encourage green purchases. For example, we have extended the green vehicle rebates to encourage more to choose such vehicles. In addition, my Ministry will be making it mandatory, as announced by the Minister a few minutes ago, for air-conditioners and refrigerators to be energy labelled, so that consumers have the necessary information when buying those appliances. We are also encouraging energy audits among companies and building owners to improve their energy efficiency.

A key principle of public sector procurement is to secure value-for-money for goods and services purchased. While the public sector does not have an explicit green procurement policy, public agencies are free to procure environmentally-friendly goods and services, based on their own needs and circumstances. We encourage them, where possible, to purchase green products within those guidelines. I am heartened to see that the public sector is piloting a number of green procurement initiatives. For example, the Singapore Police Force has procured two hybrid cars for trial as patrol vehicles. Eight public sector agencies, including MEWR, MOF, MOM and SGH, are also participating in a pilot scheme on performance contracts for energy audits. Under this scheme, the contractor designs and finances the installation of energy-saving equipment and gets paid according to the savings achieved. The agencies put in nothing, or very little. If successful, Sir, we will encourage more public agencies to implement such green contracts.

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Besides green procurement, it is equally important for us to internalise environmentally-friendly habits. Recently, MEWR and NEA were awarded the Green Office Label under Project Eco-Office. This is an initiative launched by the Singapore Environment Council to encourage office workers to incorporate environmentally-friendly practices in their daily routines. Since certification, my Ministry has achieved a 5% reduction in both energy and water consumption - very green practices. Recovery of recyclables, such as paper and drink cans, has also increased significantly.

My Ministry will continue to work with the Ministry of Finance to further promote the adoption of green procurement and practices among public agencies.

Sir, Dr Tan has asked about the guidelines on the disposal of dead birds and whether these guidelines dovetail with our Avian flu surveillance efforts. The answer is yes. AVA has put in place an Avian flu surveillance system as well as an inter-agency action plan to respond to an Avian flu incident. As part of the surveillance system, NEA will respond to calls on the presence of dead birds and send these for H5N1 virus testing in AVA laboratories.

In carrying out this work, Sir, NEA officers and cleansing workers are equipped with personal protection equipment, such as gloves and masks, and are trained to follow safety procedures.

So far, AVA has not detected the presence of the H5N1 virus in Singapore. Notwithstanding this, as a precautionary measure, the public is advised not to handle any dead birds they come across, but to contact NEA. As we have learnt in our fight against dengue, maintaining Singapore's high standard of public health requires the public to be our eyes and ears on the ground.

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Hawker Centres

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Information, Communications and the Arts (Encik Yatiman Yusof): Sir, our hawker centres are part of "Uniquely Singapore". They are the special attractions to both Singaporeans and tourists.

A few years ago, when I was with MFA, a Malaysian Minister on transit at Changi Airport asked me to take him to a hawker centre. As he had only 90 minutes to spare, I took him to the Bedok North Avenue 4 hawker centre near the SBS depot, the nearest from the airport. He was impressed not only by the quality of prata served, but also the way stalls were neatly arranged, the manner in which tables and chairs were cleaned, how the eating plates were removed and cleaned, etc. More than this, he commended on the good sanitation and sewerage system, and the multi-racial nature of the hawker centre.

1.15 pm

He said, and I quote, "Your hawker centres are good models to emulate." Sir, it was in the light of this special position enjoyed by our hawker centres that I am heartened to learn that the upgrading work for 48 out of the 113 centres which started four years ago had made them look more attractive to their customers. With improved floorings, better tables and chairs and stall designs, more airy environment, improved disposal system and better and more airy toilets, many found the upgraded hawker or food centres more comfortable.

However, we need to do more to make it vibrant. I had been to the upgraded East Coast Park, Adam Road, Bedok Corner, Pasir Panjang hawker centres during the weekdays and weekends. My impression is that they

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have not shed their old characteristics of a place for one to "come, eat and go". To make them more vibrant, we need more than just improving the gastronomic aspect. So when I saw the Lianhe Zaobao report on 23rd January and the Straits Times on the same day that said, "Flea markets, buskers jazz up hawker centres; over 50 food centres now have added attractions.", I say we have done well in energising our hawker centres.

But, Sir, how many of these 50 or so centres really have all the attractions mentioned by the newspapers? Why not also consider placing television sets so that diners can eat and update themselves on news and enjoy the entertainment such as football matches? Or provide stages for buskers or music performance at the site?

Sir, one of the reasons for the constraints faced by those managing the hawker centres is the location. It is either too cramped or too near residential areas that neighbours get unhappy over the noise generated apart from the fumes coming from the kitchens. Perhaps, we could build some of these hawker centres near to parks or water bodies.

Sir, over the past year, we have seen more recreational activities taking place near the water bodies such as reservoirs. I remember hearing about a plan to build hawker centres and recreational facilities near the water areas. Bedok Reservoir has been mentioned as one of the possible new locations. May I ask the Minister whether there is a plan to move towards this direction island wide? If indeed there is, when would such a plan be completed?

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, I would like to thank Mr Yatiman for raising an issue which is close to our heart and our stomach, which is on the hawker centres. I am impressed by his ability to

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read Mandarin apart from his knowledge of Tongkat Ali .

Sir, the Hawker Centres Upgrading Programme was launched in 2001. To date, a total of 48 centres have been upgraded. With increased ventilation, wider aisles, larger stall spaces, and aesthetically pleasing landscape, these upgraded centres have enjoyed improved patronage and business.

Besides being key amenities, hawker centres are places for social interaction and community bonding. Mr Yatiman asked what we can do to make hawker centres more vibrant. Sir, I mentioned in the COS last year that my Ministry would study the feasibility of introducing activities to increase the vibrancy of our hawker centres. I am pleased to announce that since August last year, a variety of activities such as busking, cultural performances and flea markets have been organised in more than 80 centres. Television sets have also been installed in some of our hawker centres.

Sir, we have received positive responses from both stallholders and patrons on these activities. Stallholders have reported an increase in customer volume. 71% of the respondents in MEWR's recent survey indicated that they would visit hawker centres more often if there were such activities. In fact, we have been told that the singing and dance performances at hawker centres have become so popular that some customers are requesting for singing and dancing contests to be organised for them to take part.

Sir, the Hawkers Associations have played a key role in organising these activities. In fact, Hawkers Associations have a better feel of the uniqueness, strengths and shortfalls of their respective

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centres. They are thus best placed to work with the grassroots to determine the nature, extent and frequency of such activities.

Let me cite an example. The hawker centre at Blk 137 Tampines Street 11 is a good example. The Hawkers Association, together with the Merchants Association and grassroots have worked together to increase the centre's vibrancy. It is the first hawker centre to provide wireless broadband services. In addition, with five 29-inch television sets placed around the centre, diners will be entertained while they enjoy their food. To top it off, the centre has a customer service counter where customers can charge their mobile phones and borrow umbrellas when it rains. PR consultants have also been engaged to help stallholders improve the presentation of their stalls.

Sir, I would like to encourage Hawkers Associations to work with the grassroots and NEA to organise activities at our hawker centres. NEA is also developing a set of guidelines to help the hawkers associations in introducing more activities.

Sir, let me now move on to the second part regarding our water bodies. In 2005, the PUB adopted a new approach to engage our 3P partners to value and enjoy our water resources. We opened up our reservoirs for more recreational activities and launched Our Waters programme that encouraged public adoption and ownership of our waterways.

As more and more of our population live and work within water catchment areas, these efforts encourage the public to form a closer bond with water and appreciate the need to keep our catchments clean. Singaporeans can play a part by not littering or polluting the catchment so that our water sources remain clean and our water quality remains high.

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Mr Yatiman has asked about the plans to enable the public and community to better enjoy our reservoirs and waterways. In 2006, we will continue the outreach efforts under an umbrella programme known as the Active, Beautiful and Clean Waters Programme, or ABC Waters Programme. Our waterways and reservoirs should not be just for water collection, storage and drainage purposes. The ABC Waters Programme will transform the waterways and reservoirs into vibrant and aesthetically pleasing community spaces with activities for everyone to enjoy and participate in. I have circulated some pictures to Members of the House so that they have a better sense of what we are talking about.

Members in this House are aware of the concept plans that have been drawn up for Bedok and MacRitchie Reservoirs which were developed after much public consultation and feedback. In the next two to three years, PUB will be working with the relevant stakeholders and grassroots organisations to implement the plans. Sir, with the experience gained, PUB intends to work with other stakeholders and 3P partners to develop similar plans for our other reservoirs such as Pandan, Upper and Lower Seletar reservoirs.

Sir, another initiative which will be implemented under the ABC Waters Programme is Watershed Management. The PUB will appoint private sector companies with the relevant experience and know-how to manage our water bodies. These Watershed Managers will contribute ideas to enhance and redevelop our waterways and reservoirs. This is not new. It has been done in some other countries.

More can also be done to improve the aesthetics along and surrounding the waterways to provide further opportunities for Singaporeans to enjoy the environment. Projects of similar nature

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have been attempted overseas with great success, like the Cheong-gye Stream in Seoul and the Isar River in Munich, Germany. As a pilot project, the PUB, NParks and HDB will provide landscaping and recreational facilities along a short stretch of Kallang River in the second half of 2006. Learning from this pilot project, the PUB and NParks will then develop the remaining sections of Kallang River in the next stage, which could even incorporate water features. With these in place, residents could look forward to carrying out activities amidst the greenery by the river, such as leisure strolls, jogging, or simply socialising with neighbours and friends.

Another potential area for redevelopment is upstream of Kallang River that runs adjacent to Bishan Park and the HDB housing estate. By maintaining a constant level of water in the canal and integrating landscaping and recreational facilities, the canal could be transformed into a focal point for residents to engage in recreational activities and enjoy the serenity of the waterway.

For the Marina Basin, its strategic location in the heart of the city presents a wonderful opportunity to promote the Basin as a lifestyle attraction with lots of activities in and around the waters. We have heard the announcement about the Bridge. More can be done. With the closure of the Marina channel, expected to be in July this year, the Basin will become an enclosed water body ideal for recreational activities to take place. PUB is working with relevant agencies through the Downtown Ministerial Steering Committee and other inter-agency forums, as well as with stakeholders to manage the activities in the Marina Basin so that these can be conducted safely and smoothly.

Sir, in building the Marina Barrage and beautifying the waterways leading into the future Marina Reservoir, PUB, as the

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custodian of our water resources, has shown us a host of possibilities for bringing us closer to water and transforming the waterfront view in many of our neighbourhoods. In order to realise the full potential of our waterways, this undertaking cannot be PUB's alone. We need to harness the ideas and efforts of many parties in the private, public and people sectors, especially those living close to these waterways and who have a stake in bringing this vision to fruition. This will take time, and can only be possible if we continue to enjoy good economic growth.

Sir, PUB is working towards a public exhibition early next year, and all Singaporeans will have the opportunity to share their ideas on how we can make our living environment, including the waterways as a more vibrant and enjoyable place. This will give new meaning to living in a garden city where beautiful waterways run through it.

Sir, we have outlined how the Ministry will spare no efforts in tackling the environmental challenges which face us in preserving and enhancing our natural resource endowments of water, land and air. We have put in place many programmes and plans, but we cannot achieve and sustain this without a strong partnership with the people and private sectors, ie, a 3P partnership approach. We also need individuals to do their part, so that as a nation, our collective efforts would make that quantum difference to our continual quest of being a clean, vibrant and beautiful global city.

Mdm Cynthia Phua: Mr Chairman, just two points of clarification. I would like to thank the Minister and PUB for their support in working with the MPs and grassroots leaders of Aljunied GRCs in making our Bedok Reservoir a jewel in Aljunied GRC.

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However, I just want to appeal to the Minister to allow certain areas in the Bedok Reservoir for children or even adults like me, who love water, to be able to walk into the water or to dangle our feet in the water. Currently, the edge itself is very rough with rocks.

The second question is on the hawker centres. Our hawker centres have matured, like what our Member of Parliament has said. Could the Minister look into the guidelines of the operating hours of these hawker centres? At the same time, we should consider allowing the stallholders to sublet their stalls. The reason is that we have already matured so much and a lot of them have actually assigned their stalls and they are paying market price for the stall itself. Can the Ministry allow some subletting so that the hawker stalls can operate longer hours?

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, I am glad that Mdm Cynthia Phua sees the value in what we are doing at Bedok Reservoir. I will take her feedback and discuss this with the PUB. As I mentioned just now, we will be having an exhibition next year. These are some of the inputs that PUB would like to gather to better understand the needs of residents. She is the Member of Parliament in that area, so she understands the needs of her residents. We will take her feedback but, at the same time, she must also appreciate that we have to balance this with safety. If children are involved with water, we must balance all our objectives so that we achieve the desired outcome.

On hawker centres, I appreciate her concern about extending the hours of operation and whether subletting is one way to go. She is aware that we have to be careful. If we do allow this, that means we will promote a second sector which could be illegal altogether and we do not want that to happen at our hawker centres. But having said that, there are instances whereby families have been

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able to re-assign it to a relative where they can extend their operating hours. We understand the concerns of some of our hawkers and NEA is now reviewing this on how best we can help our hawkers, especially those who are in need, to be able to operate longer hours, so that they can earn some extra income.

1.30 pm

Dr Warren Lee (Sembawang): Sir, I am really glad to hear of the Minister's vision for the revived waterways. Can I ask whether he might include plans for Sungei Sembawang or Katib Bongsu canal?

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Certainly, we will include all our waterways. I have been told that we have done something at Sungei Sembawang. Katib Bongsu, if my memories serve me right, would be part of a new reservoir, but that will be later. If we succeed in our pilot project on the ABC Waters Programme at Kallang River, we will explore all the other waterways in Singapore to see how we can enhance it.

We will continue to review all the opportunities across our waterways in order to enhance the living environment there.

The Chairman: Any more requests? Mr Yatiman.

Encik Yatiman Yusof: Sir, I am heartened to see the plan for the various waterways as elaborated by the Minister. I targeted my question at MND yesterday, but now I have MEWR replying to my question. I would like to add a point here, Mr Chairman.

The Chairman: Are you making a speech or asking a question, Mr Yatiman?

Encik Yatiman Yusof: Asking a question.

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The Chairman: Please do.

Encik Yatiman Yusof: I would like to ask whether this concept would be incorporated together with the parks development, and whether MEWR is working closely with the National Parks Board.

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Yes, Sir. As you know, for example, in the case of Bedok Reservoir, we own the waterways but the surrounding part is managed by NParks, so we have to work together with other agencies. As I mentioned in my reply, we work closely with NParks and HDB to ensure that we integrate our plans.

The Chairman: Dr Geh Min, you want to ask something?

Dr Geh Min: Thank you. Two points of clarification. First, may I congratulate the Minister on the very effective work on the waterways. Just a point of clarification here. It says in the first photograph on Sungei Api Api, "Instead of lining the river with concrete, mangrove plants were used to soften the look". Obviously, I think this was formulated by the Ministry of the Environment, and not NParks. I know that the Government believes in substance but not style and I would just like to clarify here that mangrove plants do more than soften the look. They are ecologically-friendly, reduce pollution, reduce erosion and they reduce greenhouse gases. So I think that would be a more fitting subtitle.

The second point of clarification is for the Senior Parliamentary Secretary. I would like to thank him very much for his comprehensive reply on the green procurement policy for the public sector. He has stated that he thinks that it is effective as a voluntary process and he cited some good examples of Ministries or Government agencies.

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The Chairman: Dr Geh Min, please ask your question or clarification.

Dr Geh Min: My question is this: some agencies are better than others. Some Government agencies are better. Of course, the Ministry of the Environment is at the top there, but it is quite evident that some agencies, even Government agencies, are not as good in their energy efficient and green practices. So, what is MEWR doing to raise their level?

Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee: First of all, thank you very much for Dr Geh Min's compliments. I think the process takes some time. We need to proceed slowly. What are we doing? First of all, we are trying to persuade the different Ministries to be as green as the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources. So we set the example and then whisper in the ears and lobby the Ministers and the Prime Minister. There is no explicit green procurement policy. There is an implicit one because the Government has agreed to energy labelling for appliances. In that sense, all the agencies must buy energy-labelled refrigerators and air-conditioners. So that is the green procurement policy in kind. I think, slowly over the next few years, you will find that more agencies will buy more green products and also when more of these products are available in the market. But, again, in saying so, we would like to emphasise that the public sector procurement policy is one that is based on value-for-money for goods and services purchased. So, the green procurement policy must not be on top of that. It must be below that.

Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan: I would like to ask the Minister regarding our Singapore OK programme. It does not seem to be very okay now for many toilets. Is the Ministry going to review the whole initiative to see what else we can do

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because many of the toilets have really deteriorated in cleanliness?

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: I apologise to Dr Khor for not answering that. I agree with her that after the campaign we noticed a slight deterioration. My officers have stepped up efforts and we are going to work very closely with the operators. I mentioned in my reply that we are going to work with coffeeshops and places where people gather, for litter-free premises and we will extend this to looking into toilets and how best we can maintain the standard. So it is an important part of our work and I thank her for raising it up and we will continue to review this.

Mdm Cynthia Phua: Sir, there is an important waterway between Coney Island and Punggol end. There is a short stretch where it is covered by water. The island itself is really very good for recreation, except that it is in the boundary of Changi side rather than Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC per se. What I want to ask is if this stretch of water could be used for recreational purposes. Is the Ministry looking into it or could it be used as water catchment area as well?

Assoc. Prof. Dr Yaacob Ibrahim: Sir, our first priority is to exploit all our water bodies for the purpose of our water consumption. I am not sure which part is she talking about. Under the plan, that is part of the Seletar-Serangoon reservoir scheme, which we are now upgrading to turn it into a reservoir. This is part of the Masterplan I mentioned earlier to achieve basically our four National Taps to ensure that we maximise our water resources. But, along the way, after we have achieved our first basic objective, which is to provide drinking water for all Singaporeans and water for use in industry, we will explore other opportunities like beautifying the waterways and the areas around it. In this instance, as I

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have replied to Mr Yatiman, we work closely with our partners, NParks. So, as and when, we can actually open up the waterways for public recreational use, we will do so because this is the way, as I mentioned in my reply, we contribute to this uniquely global city that we have in Singapore. In fact, as we basically build up more reservoirs in Singapore, build up more of our areas to become catchment areas, the need for Singaporeans to be more careful about littering our waterways becomes all the more important. So rather than taking the approach that you cannot approach our waterways, we think the best way is to open up our waterways and educate Singaporeans to be responsible so that they can enjoy the water, dangle their feet in Bedok Reservoir, whatever the case may be but, meanwhile, do not litter our waterways.

Dr Tan Sze Wee: I would like to thank the Senior Parliamentary Secretary for the clarification regarding not handling dead birds per se. But I have a clarification. It is a fact that, as we know from recent cases, quite a majority of the human cases have been children who have come in close contact with dead poultry or birds that have been exposed to H5N1. This question arose because one of my friends, who is a parent, had seen with her eyes, how in a school, when there was a dead bird in the compound, the way it was handled upset her because it seems that the school does not really know what to do as well. Perhaps it is for the Ministry to consider public education because although we do not have it here yet but, because of migrating birds, we never know when it will come. Schools too would also have to be educated on how to handle dead birds within their compound, especially how to educate the children not to touch the birds as well.

The Chairman: Any more clarifications? Dr Geh Min, make it brief, please.

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Dr Geh Min: I asked for a clarification from the Senior Parliamentary Secretary and I thank him for his reply. I understand the green procurement policy must work with, rather than against economic considerations. But the point that I was trying to make is that if the public sector supports green practices, this would jump-start and make it more affordable for everyone, the private and the people sectors, to practise energy-efficient and green technology practices because the Government is such a large sector in the industry.

Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee: Sir, if I may clarify, the Government is for procuring green products. We are not saying that we do not buy green products. Where possible, we will buy green products but it must be value-for-money products. Yes, we take the point that Dr Geh Min is trying to inform us. We will move forward the process and see how large this implicit green procurement policy can be widened to.

The Chairman: Any more clarifications?

Assoc. Prof. Koo Tsai Kee: I was going to answer Dr Tan but Dr Geh Min stood up to ask another good question. He asked for public education policy to be disseminated to schools. We will take up on that suggestion. Again, we want to emphasise that dead birds are not to be handled by hands without gloves.

The Chairman: If there is no other clarification, Dr Khor, are you withdrawing your amendment?

Dr Amy Khor Lean Suan: Sir, I thank the Minister and his Senior Parliamentary Secretary for their very comprehensive replies. I would also like to thank the Minister for bringing us many good news today regarding the conservation and protection of the environment and improving the quality of the environment,

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including our very own and very unique Singaporean-style hawker centres.

Sir, I am pleased to withdraw my amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

The sum of $440,608,750 for Head L ordered to stand part of the Main Estimates.

The sum of $613,,946,500 for Head L ordered to stand part of the Development Estimates.