Committee of Supply 2025 debate, Day 6: Carrie Tan on making inclusivity a lived reality

A truly inclusive society does not just accommodate people with disabilities and special needs; it values, respects and celebrates them, said MP Carrie Tan in parliament on Friday (Mar 7). Noting that representation matters, she called for public awareness campaigns highlighting the talents and capabilities of people with disabilities and special needs, and showcasing their success stories in business, sport, the arts and technology. Adding that “media is a mirror of society”, she suggested establishing a national framework to propel advertisers and content creators to incorporate intentional disability representation. Ms Tan also mooted targeted support for neighbourhood merchants and small retailers to hire people with disabilities and special needs. Seeing them gainfully employed in the businesses that Singaporeans frequent every day is sure to change societal perceptions, she said.