“MHA Responds to Criticism on Drug Laws, Calls Ex-Detainee’s Claims “Regrettable” “

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has responded to former political detainee Teo Soh Lung’s claims that Singapore’s drug laws are ineffective, describing her statements as “regrettable.” In a statement on May 17, MHA addressed Teo’s concerns, particularly her implication that it was inappropriate for Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam to address these issues in Parliament.

During a wide-ranging speech on May 8, Shanmugam defended Singapore’s strict drug laws, outlining their role in tackling evolving drug threats, especially among young people. Responding to Teo’s comments that the government has failed to address drug abuse and trafficking, MHA emphasized that while the drug issue cannot be “permanently solved,” strict policies help reduce the number of abusers and prevent serious consequences, including increased deaths and suffering.

Teo also alleged that Shanmugam misused parliamentary privilege and unfairly singled out activists, including the Transformative Justice Collective and Online Citizen Asia, for allegedly spreading misinformation. MHA highlighted that the minister waived parliamentary immunity, inviting those who disagree to take action if they wish.

MHA reiterated that anti-drug efforts include honoring those on rehabilitation journeys and supporting families affected by drug abuse, while maintaining firm laws to keep Singapore safe. The government continues to cite other countries with lenient drug laws, which, according to MHA, have suffered increased overdose rates and drug-related violence.