By Rajvant Kaur and Boo Kok Chuon
On February 7, 2025, former transport minister S. Iswaran was placed on Home Detention Scheme (HDS), marking the final phase of his sentence. The scheme, designed to facilitate reintegration while maintaining public safety, allows eligible inmates to serve part of their sentence at home under strict supervision, including electronic monitoring, curfews, and employment or counseling requirements.
Iswaran, who was convicted of corruption-related offenses, was sentenced to a short jail term and a fine. His placement on HDS follows standard rehabilitation and remission policies, which apply to inmates who meet the eligibility criteria. However, the case raises questions about how high-profile offenders are treated within Singapore’s structured rehabilitation framework. Does this signify differential treatment or a consistent application of existing policies?
To better understand this, we examine HDS and other key rehabilitation schemes that Singapore employs to balance punishment, deterrence, and reintegration.
Home Detention Scheme (HDS): A Step Toward Reintegration
HDS is a structured early release program allowing inmates to serve the last portion of their sentence at home instead of in prison. However, it comes with strict conditions:
- Electronic Monitoring: Inmates wear an ankle tag to track their movements.
- Curfews & Restricted Movement: They cannot leave home except for work, medical visits, or rehabilitation programs.
- Regular Check-ins: They must report to authorities at scheduled intervals.
- Employment or Counseling Requirements: They must be gainfully employed or actively engaged in rehabilitation programs.
The legal basis for HDS comes under Singapore’s Prisons Act, which allows the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) to transition inmates back into society under controlled conditions. If an inmate breaches the terms, they can be sent back to prison to serve the remainder of their sentence.
This program aligns with Singapore’s broader rehabilitation philosophy, which seeks to minimize recidivism while maintaining accountability.
The Conditional Remission System (CRS): One-Third Early Release for Good Conduct
Beyond HDS, another key initiative is the Conditional Remission System (CRS), which allows inmates to be released after serving two-thirds of their sentence if they display good behavior.
Upon release, they are placed on a Conditional Remission Order (CRO), which states that:
- They must not commit any offense during their remission period.
- If they re-offend, they can be recalled to serve the remaining sentence, plus additional penalties.
CRS is not automatic—eligibility is based on:
- Good conduct in prison
- Participation in rehabilitation programs
- Assessment of reoffending risk
Inmates released under CRS often transition into structured aftercare programs to support reintegration.
Mandatory Aftercare Scheme (MAS): Higher-Risk Offenders Under Close Supervision
For higher-risk offenders, Singapore has implemented the Mandatory Aftercare Scheme (MAS), which extends supervision beyond release.
MAS applies to offenders deemed at high risk of reoffending and includes:
- Electronic monitoring & curfews
- Regular drug testing (for drug offenders)
- Counseling and employment assistance
- Community-based rehabilitation programs
MAS is particularly relevant for serious offenders, ensuring they receive continued supervision and guidance even after leaving prison.
The Yellow Ribbon Project: Changing Mindsets, Offering Second Chances
While structured rehabilitation schemes help former offenders stay on the right path, social stigma remains a major challenge. The Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) was launched in 2004 to change public perception and encourage employers to hire ex-offenders.
The YRP promotes:
- Public awareness campaigns on second chances
- Job placement programs for ex-inmates
- Community engagement initiatives to foster acceptance
By reducing stigma and providing opportunities, the Yellow Ribbon Project prevents reoffending and enables former inmates to contribute positively to society.
Does Iswaran’s Placement on HDS Raise Questions?
Given Iswaran’s high-profile status, some may wonder whether his placement on HDS is an example of preferential treatment. However, the reality is that:
- HDS is a standard scheme available to eligible inmates.
- His sentence length and offense type fit within eligibility criteria.
- Supervision and restrictions apply, as they would for any other inmate.
While public figures may face more scrutiny, Singapore’s legal system maintains a structured, rule-based approach to rehabilitation. Accountability remains key, but so does the principle of reintegration and reducing recidivism.
Final Thoughts: Why Reintegration Matters
Singapore’s approach to rehabilitation—through HDS, CRS, MAS, and YRP—demonstrates a progressive but firm stance on offender reintegration. Punishment alone does not prevent reoffending; structured reintegration, support, and accountability do.
However, the success of these programs depends on societal acceptance. Employers, policymakers, and communities must play a role in ensuring ex-offenders get real opportunities to rebuild their lives.
By offering second chances, we reduce crime, improve public safety, and foster a more inclusive society.
Conclusion
If you’re an employer, consider hiring ex-offenders through the Yellow Ribbon Project. If you’re a citizen, challenge stereotypes and support second chances.
A society that believes in redemption over rejection is a society that truly progresses.