First, strengthening Muslim leaders' efforts to counter extremist ideology.

Two, getting Singaporeans to be more vigilant in detecting 'early warning signs' of those succumbing to extremist ideas.

Mr Wong, who is also Home Affairs Minister, was replying to Dr Teo Ho Pin (Bukit Panjang), chairman of the Government Parliamentary Committee for Home Affairs.

He described as 'troubling' the trend of self-radicalised individuals, who are drawn to extreme ideology independent of direct recruitment efforts by established terror groups.

Last month, two such young men were arrested under the Internal Security Act.

Another was put on a restriction order that allows him to be at home, but restricts his movement outside. There could be some who have yet to be 'discovered', Mr Wong said.

Their sources of radical ideology include the Internet, oft-exploited by terrorist organisations.

There is 'no way' his ministry can monitor all the radical websites, said Mr Wong.

Describing how the threat can be tackled, he said Muslim leaders play an important role.

Stressing that he appreciates their efforts, he added: 'They are confronting the terrorist threat directly, even taking the fight online to counter the extremist ideology.'

But people need to also be more vigilant.

'Early warning signs in the individual's conduct can be discerned,' said Mr Wong.

'Those who see it must recognise its significance and not be reluctant to report on him.'

The minister also highlighted the 'creeping danger of polarisation' between Muslim and non-Muslim communities in many countries - a trend compounded by provocative acts like films offensive to Muslims.

'Such ethnic polarisation only serves the cause of the jihadist extremists and terrorists. We must not allow this to happen in Singapore.'

Ideology aside, Singapore must continue to ensure its physical security, and that of buildings that could be targets.

Mr Arthur Fong (West Coast GRC) asked if Singapore is fully exploiting technology in this regard.

Yes, said Mr Wong.

Singapore's border security technology is 'a formidable resource', which netted 37,800 cases of smuggling last year, a jump of 83per cent from 2006.

'This is a good proxy indicator because if we can catch people smuggling cigarettes or other items, we can catch people smuggling terrorist material,' said Mr Wong.

He agreed with Mr Fong that technology alone cannot defeat determined criminals and terrorists: 'Technology is only a tool; the operator is the brain that makes it work.'

Hence, his ministry invested heavily in the training of its officers, he said.

Mr Wong also assured Madam Ho Geok Choo (West Coast GRC) that government agencies have 'a high level of preparedness' for emergencies.

But no government can give total protection to all, he said. 'Resources are not unlimited.'

At the same time, they are being 'stretched' to meet the security needs arising from more tourists, foreign workers and mega events like the Youth Olympic Games.

'Going forward, we must continue to engage business, industry and citizens to become the stakeholders in their own security,' said Mr Wong.

xueying@sph.com.sg