Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has advised everyone to stay vigilant as the threat of terrorism in Singapore is evolving. Wong told the audience at the 10th anniversary of the SGSecure movement on September 23, 2026, that terrorism is still a significant threat and that the risks are no longer just from traditional terrorist attacks.
The comments follow days after Singapore’s Internal Security Department (ISD) announced that the nation’s threat of terror has not weakened and that self-radicalisation and youth radicalisation were among its key concerns.
Singapore Terrorism Threat Remains High, PM Wong Says
Singaporeans must not get complacent after years of relative peace and security, Wong said in a speech at the SGSecure 10th anniversary event at Our Tampines Hub.
He said security agencies have identified individuals, thwarted potential plots and stopped attacks from happening. He said he wouldn’t claim that there is a 100% chance of keeping everyone safe with any security system, however.
The Prime Minister also urged the public to be vigilant but do not live in fear and fear of everyone.
What has changed in Singapore’s security environment?
According to Wong, the threats facing Singapore are now broader. They can include:
- Online radicalisation leading to real-world violence
- Potential attacks in schools, workplaces, religious organisations and public spaces
- Extremist material spreading through digital platforms
- Individuals becoming radicalised without direct contact with terrorist organisations
Self-radicalisation was also a key factor in the domestic terrorism threat as reported in the Singapore Terrorism Threat Assessment Report 2026 earlier this month, where youth radicalisation was on the rise.
SGSecure Enters Its Next Phase
In 2016, the SGSecure movement was initiated to improve communities’ and the public’s preparedness and resilience to terrorism. The government is scaling up the programme 10 years later, to reach more people and tackle evolving threats.
The next step will be to expand outreach to neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces, and include a greater number of volunteer advocates, Wong said.
The Ministry of Home Affairs has also noted that this year’s 2026 SGSecure campaign “Play Your Role” is not just about awareness, it’s about action. The campaign aims to raise awareness, educate people on how to respond during an emergency, and help them be part of the community’s safety.
New SGSecure initiatives
The next phase includes:
- More SGSecure advocates across schools, workplaces and communities.
- Updated public advisories focused on evolving threats.
- Wider digital and social-media outreach.
- An AI-enabled training chatbot being tested to support SGSecure advocates and frontline officers.
- More programmes designed to engage young people and families.
The official SGSecure website also provides guidance on staying alert, staying united and staying strong during security emergencies.
Why Youth Radicalisation Is a Growing Security Concern
Youth radicalisation has become a particular focus of Singapore’s counter-terrorism efforts.
The latest assessment, according to CNA reported, revealed that six out of eight cases under the Internal Security Act since July 2025 were those of individuals under 21 years. The cases illustrate the role online media can play in self-radicalisation of younger people.
Therefore, the government has increased its focus on early intervention, providing support to the community and identifying signs of radicalisation.
Wong also noted the need for social cohesion, especially in the case of extremist violence that is tied to race or religion.
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What Singaporeans Are Being Asked to Do
The government’s SGSecure framework focuses on practical community participation rather than leaving security entirely to enforcement agencies.
People are encouraged to:
- Stay aware of their surroundings.
- Report suspicious behaviour or items through appropriate channels.
- Avoid spreading unverified information during emergencies.
- Learn basic emergency-response skills.
- Support people who may be vulnerable to radicalisation.
- Remain calm and help others during a crisis.
The official SGSecure “Play Your Role” programme provides public resources and information about emergency preparedness and community participation.
FAQs
Is the terrorism threat in Singapore currently high?
Yes. Singapore’s Internal Security Department said in September 2026 that the terrorism threat remains high, with self-radicalisation and youth radicalisation among key concerns.
What did PM Lawrence Wong say about terrorism?
Lawrence Wong said terrorism remains a major concern and urged Singaporeans not to become complacent. He also said threats are broader and can emerge through online radicalisation and violence in different public settings.
What is SGSecure?
SGSecure is Singapore’s national movement for community preparedness against terrorism. Its framework encourages people to stay alert, stay united and stay strong.
What is the new SGSecure campaign?
The 2026 “Play Your Role” SGSecure campaign encourages Singaporeans to move from awareness to practical action, including recognising warning signs and preparing to respond during emergencies.
