SINGAPORE — May 23, 2024 — A 59-year-old man in Singapore received a $1,000 fine for promoting the Falun Gong spiritual movement in public without the necessary permits. The incident, which occurred on July 5, 2023, saw the man displaying related materials along Science Park Road, resulting in charges of unauthorized public assembly. Authorities cited the lack of a permit as the primary violation, underscoring the strict regulations Singapore enforces on public gatherings; the man’s actions have drawn legal scrutiny.
The Incident: A Public Display
A 59-year-old man, Peh Teck Ho, faced legal consequences for promoting a religious movement in a public space. He was fined S$1,000 for taking part in a public assembly without a permit. The incident occurred on July 5, 2023, near Science Center Road.
Did you know? Public assemblies in Singapore are regulated to maintain public order and safety. Permits are required for gatherings intended to convey a message or express opinions.
According to Deputy Public Prosecutor Jason Chua, police officers on patrol spotted Peh sitting on a grass patch along Science Park Road. He was wearing a placard displaying Chinese text related to the Falun Gong movement.
The Placard’s Message
The placard’s message, when translated to English, read: Falun Dafa is good. Truthfulness, compassion, forbearance are good. clean world network. This message is central to the Falun Gong spiritual practice, which emphasizes these principles.
Pro tip: Understanding the local laws regarding public assembly and freedom of expression is crucial when engaging in any form of public advocacy.
Details of the Offense
Investigations revealed that Peh Teck Ho worked as a bus driver. On the day of the offense, he had transported workers and parked his bus at Town Hall Link. Before heading to the grass patch, he displayed writings related to Falun Gong on the front and rear windshields of the bus.
DPP Chua stated that Peh did this to publicise the Falun Gong movement in Singapore. This action led to the charge of participating in a public assembly without a permit.
Legal Arguments and Mitigation
The prosecution sought a fine of at least $1,000, arguing that Peh should not be considered a first-time offender due to prior incidents involving Falun Gong-related writings in public places during February and March 2023.
Peh’s lawyers, Foo Chuan Ri and Tan Seng Kiat, argued in mitigation that their client’s actions were driven by his religious convictions. they stated that he did not mean to cause offense but to share that conviction. They requested a fine of $500, highlighting that Peh is the primary breadwinner for his family, earning around $3,000 monthly, and supports his daughter who is studying in polytechnic.
Potential Penalties
The penalty for taking part in a public assembly without a permit in Singapore can be a fine of up to $3,000.
FAQ: public Assembly Permits in Singapore
What is a public assembly? A gathering of people in a public place for a common purpose, often involving expression of views or opinions.
Why are permits required? To ensure public order, safety, and to manage potential disruptions.
What is the penalty for unauthorized assembly? A fine of up to $3,000.
Where can I get a permit? The Singapore Police Force is responsible for issuing permits for public assemblies.
