Published: 26 January 2026 | Source: The Straits Times
In April 2024, an adoption agent alerted the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) to a suspicious offer of “baby supply” from Indonesia, a development that preceded the uncovering of an alleged transnational baby trafficking syndicate in 2025.
The agent reported receiving an unsolicited approach from an individual claiming to be able to supply newborns with documentation that later raised concerns. The matter was brought to MSF’s attention, which subsequently reviewed relevant adoption cases although, at that time, did not find evidence of discrepancies sufficient to trigger further investigation.
Subsequent international probes revealed that a syndicate based in Indonesia had allegedly trafficked infants to Singapore and other destinations. Singapore and Indonesian authorities are continuing cooperation to verify the circumstances of the affected children and assist adoptive families impacted by the ongoing investigations.
Senior lawyer, Sandra Ong notes that stricter safeguards under the Adoption of Children Act (ACA), which came into effect in October 2024, have enhanced protections in the adoption process. Among these are requirements for independent consent verification, more detailed consent forms, and greater transparency in agency fees, all intended to protect adoptive parents and uphold the integrity of adoption.
For families considering adoption or navigating complex cross-border adoption matters, GJC Law can guide you through Singapore’s legal requirements and help you manage risks with confidence. Contact us for expert assistance.
Original coverage: “MSF alerted by adoption agent in 2024 about suspicious baby ‘supply’ from Indonesia to S’pore”, The Straits Times.
Source: Straits Times
