MP Hri Kumar proposes additional tax on PRs and foreigners

SINGAPORE: Member of Parliament for Bishan—Toa Payoh GRC Hri Kumar Nair has proposed levying an additional income and property tax on Permanent Residents (PRs) and foreigners living in Singapore.

In a Facebook posting on Wednesday, Mr Hri Kumar said the objective of the National Defence Duty is to create sharper distinctions between Singaporeans and others who live or do business here.

He noted that PRs and foreigners cannot contribute manpower to the Singapore Armed Forces and Home Team.

Thus, they should make a financial contribution for the protection and preservation of their lives, families, jobs, investments and properties.

Mr Hri Kumar added that those who have sons who are liable for National Service (NS) will be exempted.

However, those who send their sons away before enlistment will have to pay back—taxes and penalties, over and above the bond which is forfeited.

This would be the same for those who give up their PR status.

Mr Hri Kumar further proposed that the revenue earned be placed in a National Service Trust to directly benefit National Servicemen.

The trust fund can be used to supplement the allowance of full—time National Servicemen (NSFs) from poor families.

In addition, it could be used to compensate NS men who have been injured in the line of duty. It could even provide an income for a period of time to families of NS men who have been killed.

Mr Hri Kumar believes the proposal will not cause PRs and foreigners to flee from Singapore.

He said that even with the tax increase for foreigners, it will still be among the lowest of developed countries, and Singapore will still be one of the more attractive places to live and work in.

— CNA/fa