On Public Service for Good Movement

SPEECH ON PMO COS: PUBLIC SERVICE FOR GOOD

By Denise Phua

Image: CNA; Watch full video here: https://www.channelnewsasia.com/watch/committee-supply-2024-debate-day-1-denise-phua-public-service-good-movement-4155966

Many officers who join the public service are driven by the higher purpose of doing good, wanting to serve and make a difference to Singapore. Public officers can do good both through their work or outside of work; fostering a culture of civic engagement and social responsibility.

To this end, Minister Chan Chun Sing announced last year that the public service is launching the Public Service For Good movement from July 2023. The movement calls for public officers to get involved in new ways to do good for Singaporeans, beyond their day jobs.

Such a movement not only helps foster volunteerism among public officers, it also improves their understanding of ground issues. At the same time, if properly matched, their voluntary services will enrich their beneficiaries with valuable manpower and skills.

I have personally had the opportunity to serve with several senior public officers like PS Zsin Woon and DS Poon in the disability and seniors’ space; in initiatives beyond their day jobs. Recently, I hear that public officers across the service signed up as befrienders to seniors who live alone in Marine Parade. There are many good things happening, but not much is known.

I therefore would like to ask the Minister for updates on the progress of the Public Service For Good movement since its launch; and what more can be done to match more public officers to the needs on the ground.