“Emotional Distress” is a Recognized Loss Under Singapore’s Personal Data Protection Act, Singapore
The Singapore Court of Appeal recently ruled in Michael Reed v. Alex Bellingham (Attorney-General, Intervener) [2022] SGCA 60 that “emotional distress” constitutes a valid claim for “loss or damage” under the Personal Data Protection Act 2012 (“PDPA”).
This landmark decision strengthens the rights of individuals whose personal data is mishandled. The PDPA already allows individuals to pursue civil action against organizations that violate the Act, seeking remedies like injunctions, declarations, damages, or other appropriate relief.
Mazharul Islam,
Corporate Legal Practitioner,
Member of Harvard Business Review Advisory Council.
He can be reached at mazhar@insightez.com
