SINGAPORE — Motorists may soon be penalised simply for holding their mobile phones while driving, under legislative changes tabled in Singapore's Parliament yesterday.

According to The Straits Times, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said the current law requires proof that a driver was using a device — such as texting, calling or operating apps — while holding it. This makes enforcement difficult, as officers must manually verify that the driver was actively operating the phone.

The proposed Road Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill removes that requirement. If passed, it will be an offence for a driver to hold any mobile communication device while the vehicle is moving, regardless of whether the device is being used. The definition covers mobile phones, tablets, wireless handheld gadgets and communication‑capable wearables such as smartwatches.

MHA said drivers typically hold devices with the intention to operate or move them, actions that should only be done when the vehicle is stationary. “There is no reason for a driver to hold a handphone while the vehicle is in motion,” the ministry noted, adding that doing so risks distraction and endangers other road users.

Tapping on a smartwatch will not constitute an offence if the device is worn normally. However, holding a smartwatch in hand while driving would be treated the same as holding a phone.

The Bill also expands enforcement tools. Traffic Police will be able to act on camera footage or photos and videos submitted by the public, which MHA says will improve detection. Currently, a photo of a driver holding a phone is insufficient to prove an offence, as officers must show the device was being used.

Mounted devices remain allowed, and drivers may hold their phones when the vehicle is completely stationary.