Assoc Prof Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for National Development what HDB housing options are available to children or youths aged between 12 and 23 who, because of parental death or separation, receive no financial or practical support from any living parent or relative.
Mr Desmond Lee: Younger orphans under 18 years old are typically placed in kinship care. If there are no suitable carers, the Ministry of Social and Family Development will place them in alternative care arrangements, such as foster care or residential care. For those who are 18 years old and above and have inherited a fully paid-up Housing and Development Board (HDB) flat from their parents, they can continue living in the flat.
For minors aged below 21 who inherit a fully paid-up flat, HDB may allow the creation of a trust over the flat, which will be transferred to the child once they reach 21. If the flat has not been fully paid up, HDB will treat these on a case-by-case basis, in consultation with an adult guardian when appropriate.
Adult orphans who are at least 21 can choose to take over ownership of their parents’ flat, if they have the financial means to do so. They can also purchase a new HDB flat with their siblings or on their own under the Single Singapore Citizen scheme. Those with no other housing options may apply for a public rental flat with their siblings or with another eligible single person under the Joint Singles Scheme.
The Member also asked about children whose parents are separated. For these children, as well as children whose parents are divorced, their parents continue to be responsible for their housing needs.
