Launch of the US-Singapore Trusted Traveller Programme - Speech by Mr Amrin Amin, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs

U.S Ambassador to the Republic of Singapore

Mr Kirk Wagar

Second Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs,

Mr Loh Ngai Seng

Commissioner U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Mr Gil Kerlikowske

Commissioner ICA

Mr Clarence Yeo

Distinguished guests and colleagues

Good morning.

Reaffirmation of strong bilateral ties between US and Singapore

2.     Today, we officially launch the US-SINGAPORE Trusted Traveller Programme (TTP). I am delighted to be here to celebrate this milestone in US-Singapore relations, and in the CBP-ICA relationship.

3.     The launch of the US-Singapore TTP underscores the strong bilateral relations between US and Singapore, and is especially significant given that we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of our diplomatic relations this year.  Singapore is the first ASEAN country to be given access to the Programme.

TTP – Enhancing border security and improving traveller experience

4.     The TTP is a bilateral initiative which allows citizens of both countries to enjoy convenient immigration clearance via automated clearance kiosks at the major traveller entry points into both countries.  Singaporeans can enrol in the US' Global Entry Program (GEP) from today.  Successful enrolment will allow eligible travellers quick entry through the use of automated kiosks when entering the US.  Travellers from US on their part, can seek faster immigration clearance at Singapore's checkpoints via ICA's enhanced Automated Clearance System (eIACS).

5.     The TTP is a win-win proposition for our countries.  Citizens from both Singapore and United States will enjoy greater convenience at the checkpoints, while border authorities of both countries will achieve strengthened border security and better work efficiencies.

Conclusion

6.     The signing of the TTP underscores the strong bilateral ties between Singapore and the U.S. and the common interest we share in facilitating the movement of business and other travellers between our countries, while keeping our borders safe and secure.

7.     The TTP is also aligned to the mission of US' Customs and Border Protection, which is "To safeguard America's borders"; and MHA's vision, which is "To make Singapore our Safe and Secure Best Home".

8.     Let me thank Commissioner Customs and Border Protection, Gil Kerlikowske and the Department of Homeland Security as well as the ICA and MHA team for your efforts in steering and driving this initiative through to implementation.  I am aware that months of hard work have gone in to make today's launch possible. Well done!

9.     In closing, let me say that it gives me great pleasure to be a part of this special event.  It marks yet another significant milestone in the relationship between the US and Singapore, and we should continue to enhance this relationship, both nationally and at the law enforcement agency levels.

10.     Thank you.