Listing of Foreign Organisations That May Pose Security Concerns and Advisory for Citizens Volunteering Overseas

22 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the Government will make public a list of foreign organisations that may pose concerns to Singapore’s national security for awareness; and (b) if so, how frequently will the list and activities of such organisations monitored and reviewed.

23 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) what formal channels are available for Singaporeans to seek guidance before participating in overseas activities linked to foreign organisations; and (b) whether a centralised point of contact will be established.

24 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs (a) whether the Government will consider introducing advisories or requirements for Singaporeans intending to volunteer with foreign organisations; and (b) how will it calibrate the balance between mitigating security risks and ensuring practical compliance.

The Senior Minister of State for Home Affairs (Ms Sim Ann) (for the Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs): Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to answer Question Nos 22, 23 and 24?

Mr Speaker: Please proceed.

Ms Sim Ann: Today, the Government publishes lists of individuals and entities published for specific purposes related to national security. For example, certain foreign organisations designated as terrorist entities are listed in the First Schedule to the Terrorism (Suppression of Financing) Act. There are no plans to make public a broader list of foreign organisations that may pose concerns to Singapore's national security. Such a list may give rise to operational and security risks.

Regular publicity and outreach efforts are conducted to raise public awareness of security threats, including from foreign organisations of concern such as foreign terrorist groups. We have also publicly stated that Singaporeans should not participate in foreign armed conflicts, and should exercise particular care in dealing with organisations with links to foreign militaries or foreign security and intelligence agencies.

There are also restrictions and responsibilities under various statutes such as the Foreign Interference (Countermeasures) Act, in relation to membership in a foreign legislature or foreign political organisation, or the United Nations Act which includes prohibitions against providing technical advice, assistance or training to designated foreign persons, entities and organisations.

Where necessary, the Government will issue travel advisories on overseas developments that may have security implications.

Singaporeans should exercise due diligence and err on the side of caution when in doubt. It is ultimately every individual's responsibility to ensure that they comply with our laws and not act in a manner prejudicial to Singapore’s national interest.

Mr Speaker: Ms Hazlina.

Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim (East Coast): I thank the Senior Minister of State for the clarification. There was a lot of interest with regard to the two individuals who were found to be volunteering with an Israeli military-linked organisation that points to the interest and the requirement for increased awareness.

The Senior Minister of State earlier talked about awareness campaigns. Could we have a bit more colour and a bit more sharing on the partnerships, whether it is an inter-agency approach, whether it is an approach with community organisations or going upstream to schools? So that this awareness can go upstream and it is with clarity that we understand while we are looking for international experiences that national security is always a key concern.

Ms Sim Ann: Sir, we have a national movement to prepare Singaporeans against terrorism – SGSecure. This is one way through which we disseminate important information so that Singaporeans are aware of security risks.

Also, when there are cases that the Member Ms Hazlina has raised, we have also amplified existing messages through the media and ultimately, it is very important for Singaporeans to have a good grasp of what our national interests are. This is something that we have discussed repeatedly in this House.