Singapore’s Parliament has unanimously passed a new law consolidating existing measures to uphold racial harmony while introducing safeguards against foreign interference. Around 300 clan and business associations will be designated as “race-based entities,” requiring disclosure of foreign donations.
Home Affairs and Law Minister K. Shanmugam stated that the law streamlines existing powers while reaffirming the nation’s commitment to multiracialism. It grants authorities the ability to issue restraining orders against content that threatens racial harmony and introduces a community remedial initiative as an alternative to prosecution for minor offences.
Addressing concerns over free speech, Shanmugam assured that the Government has historically exercised such powers judiciously. He emphasised that the legislation does not expand the scope of existing race-related offences but aligns them with modern needs.
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