To mitigate the continuing threat of terrorism, Singapore has been strengthening its laws throughout the years. Terrorism financing has been strongly prohibited and strict controls on the sale and possession of weapons was implemented. The said matter was addressed by Mr. Desmond Tan, Minister of State for Home Affairs, as published on the Straits Times. This arose from the current arrest of a 16-year-old self-radicalized Singaporean and the country’s plans against extremism and radicalisation.
The arrest of the said Protestant Christian youth took place in December, after he prepared detailed plans to attack Muslims at two mosques by using a machete.
Mr. Tan mentioned that the Terrorism Act (Suppression of Financing) has been updated after it was implemented in 2019. “Key changes included expanding the prohibition on financing terrorism activities to include terrorism training, and increasing penalties for failing to disclose information relating to terrorism financing to the authorities.”
Singapore Government also implements stringent controls on offensive weapons and firearms. The Arms and Explosive Act was replaced with the Guns, Explosives and Weapons Control Act. This law applies regardless on the mode of sale, whether via physical store or online platforms.
“The Government has publicly condemned overseas terrorist attacks. We are also fortunate to have the support of our religious leaders, who have been proactive in publicly condemning terror attacks and reminding their followers to stay calm and not react to expressions of extreme sentiments and acts of violence in the name of religion”,he said.
