2022: Consequences of repealing Section 377A

Mr Speaker, there remains some concern that the repeal of section 377A would lead to a drastic change in social norms, such as how marriages would be defined in the future, sexuality education in schools and what can or cannot be screened on television and in the cinema. However, we have to consider how, since 2007, when section 377A was last debated, social acceptance for homosexuality has "shifted appreciably" as mentioned by Prime Minister Lee.

https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/#/sprs3topic?reportid=bill-606

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2022: Important to define marriage as between man and woman

While, in general, more are accepting of homosexuality now, we are also very concerned about protecting the current social and family norms. With the repeal of section 377A, how can we effectively safeguard our social norms and values and, in particular, the institution of marriage which is currently defined as being that between man and woman? We must also understand how this definition underpins various national policies, such as housing and education. Hence, it is even more necessary for us to ensure that the current social and family norms are protected.

https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/#/sprs3topic?reportid=bill-606

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2022: Foreign entities should not interfere with domestic politics

Activists in both camps need not think that they should resort to drastic measures to highlight their cause, nor should any of us be influenced by foreign developments, including pushing values from multinational corporations which are not aligned with our Singaporean values. Singapore's laws are its own and we need not follow the lead of other countries if it does not suit the values and dispositions of our citizens.

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2022: Supported the repeal of Section 377A and constitutional amendment

In this way, even if one does not agree with the repeal of section 377A, at least the definition of marriage is preserved, for the time being, in our Constitution. On the other hand, for those who welcome the repeal and look beyond decriminalisation, there is room for the definitions to change when public opinion, values and norms differ. I think this is a viable compromise for our society to move forward for now. With the points considered earlier, Mr Speaker, Sir, I do support the repeal in the Penal Code and the amendments to the Constitution.

https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/#/sprs3topic?reportid=bill-606

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2023: disagreed with WP lifting party whip for repeal of Section 377A

On the issue of the repeal of section 377A and strengthening the definition of family, each Workers’ Party (WP) member took a different position based on the principle of “agreeing to disagree”. The debate on section 377A was a very sensitive one. A leader’s responsibility is not just about opening up space for disagreement. We are also responsible for uniting people with different opinions, move forward and not become divided. It is not just about them expressing different opinions.

https://sprs.parl.gov.sg/search/#/sprs3topic?reportid=president-address-2163