Oral answer by Ministry of National Development on the review of the Animals and Birds Act 1965 and the Code of Animal Welfare

Nov 13, 2024

Question No: 6781

Question by: Mr Louis Ng Kok Kwang

To ask the Minister for National Development when will the review of the Animals and Birds Act 1965 and the Code of Animal Welfare be completed.

Answer:

As part of NParks’ efforts to safeguard animal health and welfare, as well as public health and safety, we have embarked on a review of the Animals and Birds Act 1965 (“ABA”) and the Code of Animal Welfare. For instance, the penalty framework under ABA will be reviewed to ensure that they are effective in deterring and punishing acts of animal cruelty and abuse.

The review is wide ranging and apart from reviewing penalties and enforcement, it also includes strengthening animal disease and zoonoses prevention and control, possible regulation of veterinary health products, as well as animal training devices, and other areas. We will continue to take a collaborative approach in this review, and will engage the public and community stakeholders to ensure that their views are considered. We will announce more details when ready.