Usha Chandradas on Protection from Scams Bill

Art strengthens social bonds and makes individuals more resilient to scams and manipulation which often prey on those who are isolated and who lack a supportive community, said NMP Usha Chandradas in Parliament on Tuesday (Jan 7). “A community which is rooted in care and connection is one that is so much harder to exploit,” said Ms Chandradas, who voiced her support for the Protection from Scams Bill. She highlighted how art can be a powerful tool in addressing the root causes behind the perpetuation of scams and expressed hope that the Ministry of Home Affairs can continue to further engage with the arts community in its educational outreach on scam prevention. She also sought several clarifications on the Bill, including why parents are left out of the definition of a relative in relation to scam victims and what the recourse would be if the parent of a scam victim wishes to be involved in risk mitigation measures outlined in the Bill.