Written Reply by Minister for Law Mr Edwin Tong SC on Temporary Occupation Licence Application

9 September 2026 Posted in Parliamentary speeches and responses

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament
Mr Chua Kheng Wee Louis (Member of Parliament for the Sengkang GRC)

Question
To ask the Minister for Law for Singapore Land Authority’s (SLA’s) Temporary Occupation Licence applications (a) what events require a supporting letter from the constituency’s grassroots adviser; (b) why are such letters required for religious or other events; (c) what appeal channels exist for rejections; (d) whether SLA will accept a letter from the elected Member of Parliament as an alternative where the two differ; and (e) if not, why.

Written Answer by Minister Edwin Tong SC:

1.      The Singapore Land Authority (SLA) assesses Temporary Occupation Licence (TOL) applications for events on State land taking into consideration the nature of the proposed activities and the potential impact on the community.

2.      The SLA takes into account a range of considerations, including the inputs of relevant stakeholders, the purposes for which the TOL is sought, as well as the views and representations of relevant parties. In respect of certain activities, such as religious and community events, which might cause local disamenities such as noise or traffic congestion, a supporting letter from the constituency’s Grassroots Adviser is also sought. Grassroots Advisers work with Grassroots Organisations to foster social cohesion, which has a nexus with such activities carried out in the community.

3.      Appeals against the outcome of applications are considered on a case-by-case basis. Applicants are welcome to submit any supporting reasons, representations, letters of support or appeal, and any other relevant information for SLA’s further assessment. All of this will be considered.

Last updated on 9 September 2026