The Singapore Business Federation (SBF) has asked firms, especially those who employ foreign workers, to counsel their entire workforce to stay calm, maintain peace and order and not react to speculation in the wake of the Little India riot.

SBF wants its member companies to remind their workers of the importance of maintaining harmonious relations at the workplace through understanding and respect for each other and by upholding the core values of the organisation.

In a statement on Monday, it urged the authorities to act swiftly to restore confidence in Singapore as a safe place to live, work and play.

SBF also criticised the Litle India rioting as "unwarranted violence and blatant lawlessness". It said the photographs and videos of the outbreak that spread through social media have shattered Singapore's image as a peaceful and harmonious city.

The federation also asked members to alert them if they notice any tension among their employees. SBF can be contacted at 68276844 or on email at mr@sbf.org.sg.