In a separate parliamentary question on Monday, MP Yip Hon Weng (PAP-Yio Chu Kang) inquired Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam about the Government’s response to worries that Singapore can become a “destination meant for political fugitives”.
Mr Shanmugam said in a composed answer: “Foreigners who else possess a valid vacation document and satisfy entry requirements will be allowed to come into Singapore. We also of course reserve the right to deny entry to a foreigner if we evaluate that to be in the national interests.
“If a foreigner entering Singapore is wanted by his authorities, and his government made a request, the federal government will render support in accordance with our laws. ”
He added that vacationers transiting through Singapore have “technically not entered” the country when they remain within the transit area and do not apparent immigration.
“This is international regulation. Nevertheless, if we are aware of the presence of undesirable persons, we may still verify them and take appropriate actions, ” added the Home Matters Minister.
The federal government may accord additional security depending on the present and former standing of any person, taking into consideration the safety and security risk that may be posed to the person and the public, said Mr Shanmugam, who is also Law Minister.