Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA) 2012: Primary legislation governing collection, use, disclosure and storage of personal data. Requires informed consent, proper data protection measures, and establishes participant rights regarding their personal information.
Copyright Act 2021: Protects intellectual property rights, including ownership of ideas and feedback shared during focus groups. Addresses recording rights and usage of participant contributions.
Consumer Protection (Fair Trading) Act 2003: Ensures fair practices in consumer transactions, particularly relevant if participants are compensated for their participation.
Electronic Transactions Act 2010: Governs validity of electronic signatures and electronic execution of agreements. Particularly relevant for online focus groups and digital documentation.
Evidence Act: Relevant for recording sessions, maintaining records, and implementing confidentiality provisions in focus group settings.
Contract Law (Common Law): Ensures agreement meets basic contract formation requirements including consideration, capacity, and consent under Singapore's common law system.
Market Research Society Singapore (MRSS) Guidelines: Industry-specific guidelines providing best practices for conducting market research and focus groups in Singapore.
Industry-Specific Regulations: Additional regulations that may apply depending on the sector focus of the research (e.g., healthcare, financial services, etc.).
Employment Act: May be relevant if participants could be considered temporary workers under Singapore law.
Research Ethics Guidelines: Applicable if the focus group is conducted for academic or scientific research purposes, ensuring ethical research practices.
