Staff at PacificLight Power- Singapore's first power station fired by liquefied natural gas - are trained to be aware of safety and security.

But these days, they also attend events that sensitise, train and mobilise people to guard against terror.

For instance, staff learn to identify suspicious people who might be plotting an assault, including the compound's workers, said deputy general manager Kwong Kok Chan.

Speaking yesterday at the Manufacturing Industry Safety and Security Watch Group's counter-terrorism seminar, Mr Kwong provided examples of steps companies can take to be on guard - such as creating a zonal defence system dividing the premises into sectors, to organise a targeted response to threats.

Close to 200 participants - mostly professionals from the manufacturing industry - attended the one-day seminar at Biopolis.

In his opening address, Minister for Trade and Industry (Industry) S. Iswaran advised businesses to take precautions against attackshere.

As the manufacturing industry is a key component of the economy, it is an attractive terrorist target.

Mr Iswaran said last August's foiled plot to launch a rocket attack on Marina Bay "makes very clear the reality of the threat to Singapore". He stressed the importance of preserving social cohesion and unity after an attack, which he said would be crucial in helping the country recover quickly.

The minister said: "The strongest response we can mount to a potential threat is to adopt the mindset that understands this is not a matter of if, but when."