Singapore PM Wong announces new phase of SGSecure programme — Channel NewsAsia
Singapore Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said that terrorism continues to pose a significant threat to the country and announced a transition to a new phase of the national SGSecure programme. Speaking on September 23 at Our Tampines Hub in Singapore, he urged citizens not to let their guard down after a long period of peace and security.
As Channel NewsAsia reports, Wong spoke at an event marking the 10th anniversary of SGSecure, a national movement launched in September 2016 to prepare the population to act in the event of a terrorist attack. He said that security services had identified dangerous individuals, disrupted their plans and intervened before anyone was harmed. At the same time, the prime minister noted that in some cases the situation had come close to an attack.
Expanding the programme
At the new stage of SGSecure, the authorities plan to step up work in neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces. More volunteers will also be involved to spread information on recognising potential threats, identifying possible radicalisation and reporting it.
Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs said that despite the generally high level of public awareness of threats and vigilance, social complacency and the radicalisation of young people remain key challenges. The ministry will review the content of its recommendations in light of evolving threats, including youth radicalisation, and will launch a new communications campaign next year with updated messages and a slogan.
More current news is available on the UA.News Telegram channel Telegram.
Campaign for different audiences
The SGSecure Advocate programme, previously piloted at higher education institutions, will be expanded to schools, communities, workplaces and other organisations. The ministry is also testing an artificial intelligence-based training chatbot on WhatsApp to support programme participants, volunteers and frontline workers who interact with the public.
The information campaign will be distributed through radio, digital and online platforms in cooperation with content creators, media outlets and community partners. Separate activities will target audiences speaking local languages, preschool children and young families; the authorities also plan to use new digital engagement formats, including through the Roblox platform.
Wong stressed that Singaporeans should not live in fear or suspect everyone around them, but should respond to warning signs. He cited examples such as an unattended bag in a public place or a situation in which someone close begins taking an interest in extremist materials online.
