Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Measures to Prevent Debt Collection Agencies from Engaging in Harassment and Intimidation of Debtors, by Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law

Question:

Dr Tan Wu Meng: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs what measures are in place to prevent debt collection agencies from engaging in harassment and intimidation of debtors.

Answer:

1. There are existing laws protecting debtors from unreasonable or illegal conduct by debt collectors, such as harassment and intimidation. For example, debt collectors may be liable to criminal sanctions under the Penal Code if hurt or threatening behaviour is involved. The Protection from Harassment Act also provides for criminal sanctions and civil remedies against harassing behaviour. Borrowers who encounter such behaviour should report the matter to Police for investigation, or consider applying for a protection order against harassing debt collectors under the Protection from Harassment Act.

2. We are currently considering the introduction of a new legislation to regulate debt collection companies and their employees. MHA will share more details when ready.