Louis Chua on Constitution and Penal Code Amendment Bills relating to Section 377A

For too long, the law has remained in Singapore's statutes explicitly stating that sex between adult men is a crime even if it is consensual and done in private, said MP Louis Chua. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Nov 29), he said its existence has very real repercussions and the issues being debated have far-reaching effects on the personal lives of Singaporeans. Mr Chua said repealing Section 377A puts Singapore in line with other cosmopolitan, open and inclusive societies. Retaining a law that is not actively enforced or cannot be enforced sends confusing signals on Singapore's legal system, he added. He said the message is also clear on the idea that marriage is only between a man and a woman. Mr Chua said it will take time for Singaporeans to come together and create the conditions for everyone to succeed and not feel marginalised. He stressed the need to understand each other's viewpoints, stay civil and be respectful in engaging all members of society to build a more inclusive and open Singapore.