Singapore's journey toward the statutory regulation of psychologists illustrates a collaborative and pragmatic approach to professional governance within a small, multi-disciplinary mental health system. For over two decades, the Singapore Psychological Society (SPS) has administered the Singapore Register of Psychologists (SRP), a voluntary credentialing system that set foundational standards for professional competence, ethics, and continuing education.
In late 2023, the Ministry of Health (MOH) established an Implementation Committee for Psychologist Registration, marking a key transition from voluntary regulation to legislative oversight. SPS has been an active partner in this process, working closely with MOH, the National Council of Social Service (NCSS), and other agencies to ensure that the regulatory framework safeguards public welfare while supporting the continued growth and diversity of psychological practice.
This presentation will describe the evolution of Singapore's regulatory landscape, highlighting the consultative process and evidence-informed policy design that underpins the current implementation phase. It will also discuss how SPS has strengthened professional infrastructure in anticipation of statutory regulation—through the revision of its Code of Ethics and Ethical Decision-Making Model (2019), the development of a structured supervision and continuing professional development system, and collaborative university partnerships that align training standards with international benchmarks.
By situating Singapore's experience within the broader Asia-Pacific context, this presentation highlights the importance of partnership between government, profession, and community in building public trust. The Singapore model offers valuable lessons for countries seeking to balance professional autonomy, public accountability, and sustainable workforce development in their own regulatory journeys.