Yip Hon Weng on Communicable Diseases Agency Bill

The establishment of the Communicable Diseases Agency (CDA) offers an opportunity to elevate Singapore’s public health defences but it must ensure that it delivers on its promise, said MP Yip Hon Weng. Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday (Jan 7), he said the CDA must unite and strengthen public health functions to benefit Singaporeans and ensure a smooth and morale-boosting transition for employees while retaining their expertise. It must collaborate effectively with agencies like the National Environment Agency to address multi-dimensional health challenges, as well as engage globally to stay ahead of emerging threats. Most importantly, the CDA must prepare Singapore to face "Disease X”, a potentially unknown pathogen with pandemic potential, said Mr Yip. “Our goal should not just be to respond effectively when the time comes, but to anticipate, plan and build a robust system which mitigates the worst outcomes,” he said. Mr Yip stressed the need for the CDA to act with foresight - anticipate risks, coordinate responses and build trust with Singaporeans. He added that the agency should not merely serve as a safety net, but as a proactive force that protects lives and inspires confidence.