Strengthening Singapore’s Cyber Defence
Ministry of DefenceSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns Mr Lee Hong Chuang’s inquiry into lessons learned from recent cyber threats and plans to expand the Singapore Armed Forces’ cyber defence units and recruitment. Minister Chan Chun Sing explained that the Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) works with government and private sectors to protect critical infrastructure, supported by the newly established Defence Cyber Command. This command consolidates cybersecurity entities and strengthens partnerships with the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore to enhance training and technical expertise. To bolster manpower, the DIS utilizes the Sentinel Programme for youth engagement and the Cyber Work-Learn Scheme for students during national or regular service. Finally, the DIS is redeploying Operationally Ready National Servicemen with relevant technical skills and expanding overall pathways for servicemen to contribute to cyber defence.
Transcript
14 Mr Lee Hong Chuang asked the Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence (a) what lessons has the Ministry learnt from recent cyber threats to strengthen Singapore’s cyber defence; and (b) whether there are plans to expand cyber defence units within the SAF, including greater recruitment of cyber specialists through national servicemen and regular servicemen.
Mr Chan Chun Sing: Cyber threats are constantly evolving, and the lines between cyber threats in the military and civilian domains are increasingly blurred. The Singapore Armed Forces' (SAF's) Digital and Intelligence Service (DIS) works closely with other Government agencies and key private sector organisations in defending Singapore’s critical information infrastructure. Through these collaborations, including in responding to specific threats, the DIS also derives useful insight for its further development.
In terms of organisational structure, the DIS inaugurated a Defence Cyber Command (DCCOM) earlier this year that consolidates the SAF's cybersecurity entities to strengthen capabilities and operations. DCCOM also serves a focal point that deepens the DIS' partnership with the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA), other Government agencies, and critical information infrastructure owners in areas such as operations, training and sharing of technical expertise.
On the manpower front, the DIS will continue to strengthen its pipeline of cyber talent through a variety of initiatives. It works with schools, through the Sentinel Programme, to engage Singaporean youths early and equip them with cyber defence skills. The DIS has also introduced a Cyber Work-Learn Scheme with several polytechnics and universities where their students can take on advanced operational cyber roles during their National Service or Regular Service, while undergoing their diploma or degree courses. For Operationally Ready National Servicemen, those who have relevant skills to contribute to cyber defence can be redeployed to the DIS. We will continue to expand the number of ways that National Servicemen can contribute in the DIS.