Thursday, July 12, 2007
@
5:39 PM
-
How Singapore can be threatened by terrorism:
- Terrorists aims to exploit racial and religious issues to create instablity in the region, and to stir up conflict between Singapore and Malaysia.
- If terrorist activities such as bombing of public places like MRT stations and foreign embassies are not stopped in time, it will result in many deaths and loss of properties in Singapore and will affect our economy adversely, hindering Singapore's development.
- Besides, if terrorist were to succeed in carrying out their activities in Singapore, Singapore will be a very dangerous place to be in and this will not only affect the lives of local, but also the tourist arrival in Singapore. Hence, our economy will be further affected.
Measures taken by the Singapore government to counter terrorism in regional and global region:
- Police MRT Unit established on August 15th, 2005 to condust operational patrols on the Mass Rapid Transit network to protect the public transportation system.
- Conduct emergency preparedness exercise. Eg. Exercise Northstar V which involved a simulated terrorist bomb attack on four MRT stations and one bus interchange.
- Amendment to the SAF Act, giving additional powers to the Singapore Armed Forces to search, detain and use reasonable force against terror suspects.
Why is Singapore considered a secure country in Asia?
- Singapore authorities are quick in stamping out terror attempts.
- Extensive counter-terrorism measures in Singapore which involve all levels of society, including defence, internal secourity, border and infrastructure security, civil defence, medical readiness, and psychological preparedness.
- Singapore has not experienced terrorism since 1991.
~ Wan Er
