Listening to the ground

The way we interact is changing - and the Government is looking at new methods to engage people, as part of its efforts to make Singapore a good place to live, work and play.

For instance, feedback unit Reach initiated an open-concept booth. Located in public areas, the "Listening Point" provides information on national issues. It also provides a channel to obtain feedback on such topics.

Initiatives to pay more attention to the ground come under the banner of "good governance", key to Singapore's success.

Among the measures listed: Making e-services more widespread so people can use available data to create useful applications and enhancing social media engagement with the cyber-savvy.

These measures are part of President Tony Tan Keng Yam's opening address - in which he set out the Government's policies and directions as the 12th session of Parliament re-opened after a mid-term break.

Throughout the week, ministries have unveiled their respective plans in public statements, known as Addenda to the President's Address.

MPs will debate these plans when Parliament sits next week.

The Ministry of Finance will...

• Make online and mobile e-services more widespread, so people can use the data to create useful applications.
• Ensure finances are sustained.
• Continue tapping on Net Investment Returns Contribution to supplement the annual Budget.
• Continue strengthening internal controls in procurement and internal audit matters.

The Ministry of Law will...

• Better protect borrowers by reviewing the fees and interest rate caps that licensed moneylenders charge, and establish a moneylenders' credit bureau.
• Introduce a system that allows bankrupts to be discharged within clear time frames.
• Work with the Ministry for Social and Family Development and the Courts to review the family court structure and promote access to family justice.
• Strengthen enforcement of civil orders.
• Review the Criminal Procedure Code, including developing the plea bargain framework to resolve criminal cases earlier.

The Public Service Division will...

• Improve government coordination and smoothen people's interaction with the various agencies.
• Launch human resources (HR) training programmes and platforms and appoint a chief HR officer to lead these efforts.
• Create more opportunities for leaders in public service to engage younger officers.
• Recognise officers who go the extra mile at work to inspire others.