Can, and Should Saf Be Involved in Singapore's Counter-Terrorism Effort?

CAN, AND SHOULD SAF BE INVOLVED IN SINGAPORE'S COUNTER-TERRORISM EFFORT?

As a small country, Singapore's prosperity is inextricably linked to her peace and stability. Singapore must be conscious that both security and economic well being will become even more susceptible to any instability in our environment when we become more integrated with the global economy in the 21st century. Hence, one of the key thrusts of Singapore's defence strategy is to get SAF involve in her counter-terrorism effort.

As part of the process of positioning itself for the 21st century which sees the rise in terrorism, the SAF must promote regional military co-operation and dialogue. Over the years, the SAF has developed a wide range of bilateral interactions with a number of armed forces in the region. These include joint exercises and training programmes, exchange visits, professional seminars and cross-attendance of military courses.

SAF key defence strategy against terrorism involved military dialogue and co- operation, in areas such as maritime security and transnational problems. Military co-operation and dialogue in these areas will also enhance trust and confidence among regional armed forces.

In addition to professional interactions at the bilateral level, all three Services of the SAF have actively engaged in multilateral defence co- operation and confidence building measures.

Counter-terrorism in Singapore is a series of measures implemented which require the SAF to help detect and prevent terrorism, and to minimise damage from such terrorist acts should they occur. These measures include medical readiness, and psychological preparedness. SAF had in the past few years, participates actively in international counter-terrorism efforts.

SAF capability is, by most measures, the most advance in Southeast Asia. If the SAF can't and is not involve in Singapore's own counter-terrorism effort, who can, and who will?

Today, no body can be in any doubt that terrorism will be a long and arduous fight. Therefore SAF should be involved in Singapore's counter-terrorism efforts.