QUESTION
 
Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim: To ask the Minister for Foreign Affairs given the escalation of conflict in the Middle East between Iran and Israel, what are the steps that the Ministry will take to reach out to Singaporeans studying or working in the region, particularly those in neighbouring countries like Jordan and Egypt, to check in on their safety and to ensure their familiarity on evacuation plans out of the region in case of emergency.

REPLY
 
1                   This response will address Parliamentary Question No. 5968 raised by Member Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim in today’s Order Paper and a similar Parliamentary Question No. 6045 raised by Member Wan Rizal.
 
2                   The safety and well-being of Singaporeans overseas are of utmost importance to MFA. Given the tensions in the Middle East, we continue to monitor the situation closely and will update our Travel Advisories and Notices accordingly.
 
3                   Our Missions in the Middle East are in touch with the respective Singaporean communities. MFA also has been working with the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis) and its Student Liaison Officers (SLOs) in Cairo and Jeddah to maintain contact with Singapore students pursuing religious studies in the region. This enables us to reach out and provide consular assistance quickly in any emergency.
 
4                   Singaporeans in the Middle East should remain vigilant and monitor developments closely. They should also take all necessary precautions for their personal safety, purchase comprehensive travel insurance, and eRegister with MFA. As Singapore does not have resident diplomatic missions in all countries in the region, Singaporeans may also wish to familiarise themselves with the locations of the nearest Singapore Missions.

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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
8 MAY 2024