Syed Harun Alhabsyi on Societies (Amendment) Bill
New societies that were previously automatically registered could be questioned or rejected if they are deemed to pose a threat to Singapore’s security and interests, under a draft law put before Parliament. NMP Syed Harun Alhabsyi said he firmly supported this stance to protect national security and interests; however, he also believes that civil society needs space to flourish and grow. He noted that “the nature of interests, texture of advocacy and tenor of the times will certainly shift” over the years, giving rise to occasional tension between new, seemingly disruptive ideas and prevailing social norms. Dr Harun said that for youths in particular, societies give them the opportunity to cultivate new ideas, address contemporary issues and advocate for emerging concerns. He said he hopes that the authorities take “an even-handed approach” to ensure that Singapore can be made richer through diversity in societies. He also pointed to the fact that almost one in 10 registered societies today - nearly 800 of them - had already existed before the country’s independence. He asked that such societies, steeped in history and legacy, be given time and support to recalibrate and reinvigorate themselves if needed, rather than simply being dissolved. Dr Harun spoke in Parliament on Wednesday (Oct 4).
New societies that were previously automatically registered could be questioned or rejected if they are deemed to pose a threat to Singapore’s security and interests, under a draft law put before Parliament. NMP Syed Harun Alhabsyi said he firmly supported this stance to protect national security and interests; however, he also believes that civil society needs space to flourish and grow. He noted that “the nature of interests, texture of advocacy and tenor of the times will certainly shift” over the years, giving rise to occasional tension between new, seemingly disruptive ideas and prevailing social norms. Dr Harun said that for youths in particular, societies give them the opportunity to cultivate new ideas, address contemporary issues and advocate for emerging concerns. He said he hopes that the authorities take “an even-handed approach” to ensure that Singapore can be made richer through diversity in societies. He also pointed to the fact that almost one in 10 registered societies today - nearly 800 of them - had already existed before the country’s independence. He asked that such societies, steeped in history and legacy, be given time and support to recalibrate and reinvigorate themselves if needed, rather than simply being dissolved. Dr Harun spoke in Parliament on Wednesday (Oct 4).
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