Ong Ye Kung Urges Balanced Use of Technology in Law Enforcement Amid Privacy Concerns

Singapore must use technology for law enforcement judiciously, given privacy concerns, said Coordinating Minister for Social Policies Ong Ye Kung on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, following the conclusion of the 5th Singapore-China Social Governance Forum in Hangzhou, China.

Mr Ong spoke to reporters after the forum, which serves as a key bilateral cooperation platform between Singapore and China for exchanging views on social governance issues.

He emphasized that while technology can support law enforcement, its use must be balanced with privacy considerations to maintain public trust and social cohesion.

The minister also cautioned against over-reliance on law and enforcement, stating that such an approach may lead to compliance but would not foster a strong and cohesive society.

In addition to law enforcement technology, Mr Ong highlighted the need to regulate social media use among adolescents, noting that Singapore must act to address potential risks associated with youth engagement on digital platforms.

Other officials present at the forum included Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli, Minister of State for Manpower and Culture, Community and Youth Dinesh Vasu Dash, Minister of State for National Development and Trade and Industry Alvin Tan and Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Law and Social and Family Development Eric Chua.

The 5th Singapore-China Social Governance Forum took place on April 20, 2026, in Hangzhou, providing an opportunity for officials from both nations to discuss shared challenges in social governance.