Singapore strengthens international criminal cooperation with MACMA amendment bill

The bill had its second reading on 11 November.

Singapore seeks to update its International Criminal Cooperation Regime to remain aligned with international standards and revise the Trustees Act to impose effective sanctions with the Mutual Assistance in Criminal Matters (Amendment) (MACMA) and Other Matters Bill.

The bill, which had its second reading on 11 November, aims to empower Singapore law enforcement authorities to take statements from individuals to assist foreign criminal investigations.

It also seeks to help identify, freeze, seize, or confiscate property “intended to be used” in connection with a foreign offence.

The bill will also clarify when foreign proceedings are deemed concluded for enforcing a foreign confiscation order and enable Singapore to foreign confiscation orders made by “a competent authority”, in addition to such orders made by a court.

In addition, the bill also covers amendments to the Extradition Act including the updated “foreign State” that enables Singapore to make an extradition request to any territory, and not only those listed in the Third Schedule.

The bill includes technical amendments to the international cooperation regime, allowing overseas documents to be authenticated under MACMA or the Extradition Act if sealed or stamped by an official authority in that country.

“We will continue to review Singapore’s international cooperation regime to ensure that our processes remain relevant and effective. As we continue to do so, we will ensure that robust safeguards are in place to ensure that Singapore will only act in meritorious cases,” Murali Pillai SC, Minister of State of the Ministry of Law and Ministry of Transport said.