SINGAPORE GOVERNMENT SYSTEM Flashcards
What type of political system does Singapore have?
Singapore is a sovereign city-state with a parliamentary republic system.
Who is the head of state and the head of government in Singapore?
The President is the head of state - and the Prime Minister is the head of government.
What is Singapore’s legal system based on?
English common law.
What are the components of Singapore’s judiciary?
The Supreme Court (including the Court of Appeal and the High Court) and the State Courts.
Who enacts laws in Singapore?
The Parliament of Singapore - which is a unicameral body.
Which ministry oversees data protection policy in Singapore?
The Ministry of Communications and Information.
Who enforces the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) in Singapore?
The Personal Data Protection Commission (PDPC).
What is the general social attitude towards privacy and data protection in Singapore?
There is a growing awareness and concern among Singaporeans - driven by high-profile data breaches and increased regulatory focus.
How do Singaporeans generally feel about government agencies handling their personal data?
They generally trust government agencies but are more skeptical towards private organizations.
What is the National Registration Identity Card (NRIC) in Singapore?
A mandatory identification card issued to Singapore citizens and permanent residents containing personal information and a unique identification number.
Does Singapore’s Constitution explicitly guarantee a right to privacy?
No - but certain aspects of privacy may be indirectly protected under other constitutional rights.
What does Article 9 of Singapore’s Constitution protect?
The right to personal liberty - which protects against arbitrary arrest and detention - as well as unlawful search and seizure.
Has Singapore signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights?
No - which separates it from many other APEC countries in the area of human rights.
What common law protection is recognized in Singapore related to privacy?
The tort of breach of confidence - which protects against unauthorized use or disclosure of confidential information.
What does the Malcomson case of 2001 establish?
The case establishes that repetitive conduct causing worry - emotional distress - or annoyance can lead to a claim of harassment. It led to the Harassment Act of 2014.
