Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on the Policy for Foreigners Wanted by Their Governments to Transit or Enter Singapore Temporarily Pending Their Onward Flight

Question:

Mr Yip Hon Weng: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) what is the policy on allowing foreigners wanted by their government to transit or enter Singapore temporarily pending their onward flight; (b) under what circumstances will such requests be rejected outright; (c) whether the Singapore Government is responsible for the personal safety of these foreigners during their stay here; and (d) what is the Government’s response to concerns that Singapore will become a destination for political fugitives.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law:

1.   Foreigners who possess a valid travel document and meet entry requirements will be allowed to come into Singapore. We also of course reserve the right to deny entry to a foreigner if we assess that to be in our national interests.

2.   If a foreigner coming into Singapore is wanted by his government, and his government has made a request, the Government will render assistance in accordance with our laws.

3.   Travellers transiting through Singapore en-route to another destination have technically not entered Singapore if they remain within the transit area and do not clear immigration. This is international law. Nevertheless, if we are aware of the presence of undesirable persons, we may still check them and take appropriate actions.

4.   MHA ensures the general safety and security of residents and foreign visitors in Singapore. We may accord additional security depending on the current or former status of any person, taking into consideration the safety and security risk that may be posed to the person and the general public.