Yip Hon Weng on Administration of Justice (Protection) (Amendment) Bill

The amendments will reinforce the backbone of Singapore’s legal system, said MP Yip Hon Weng. Speaking in Parliament on Wednesday (Nov 13), he stressed the need to address the potential challenges to ensure their full impact. The system must be fair and balanced and deter abuse without discouraging genuine claims. It must also support vulnerable residents, respect the role of legal advisers and strengthen public trust in the judiciary. He urged the Government to provide the necessary safeguards to ensure that the Administration of Justice (Protection) (Amendment) Bill can truly achieve its intent of a justice system that is not just efficient, but also compassionate and accessible to all Singaporeans. Mr Yip also sought clarifications on the Bill. He voiced concerns with how the stricter contempt of court laws might affect those with valid grievances. While the amendments are well-intentioned, they could unintentionally create a sense of reduced access to justice for the public, he said. Stressing the need for accessibility and fairness, he wanted to know how the Government would ensure that the proposed changes do not undermine public confidence in the justice system. He asked if there could be more detailed public reporting on cases deemed manifestly groundless to help clarify the rationale for these amendments.