There were signs of more armed officers in crowded places like MRT stations and shopping malls here yesterday, in the wake of the terror attack in Jakarta on Thursday.

Ms Tan Peih Ling, 27, who owns a shop in Bugis Street, said she saw about five officers armed with rifles patrolling Bugis MRT station and outside Bugis Junction mall at around noon yesterday.

"It's good that they are enhancing security here as it is quite crowded and a touristy area. People will feel more secure," she said.

At Parliament House yesterday, where MPs were sworn in and President Tony Tan Keng Yam addressed the 13th Parliament, there also seemed to be increased police presence, with a number of police vehicles in the area.

Freelance videographer Eddy Han, 31, who was in the vicinity of Parliament House yesterday evening, said: "There were many police officers patrolling around The Arts House and Asian Civilisations Museum. I feel that it's safer with their presence, so I hope they can keep up with this."

The Ministry of Home Affairs said in a statement on Thursday that security and intelligence agencies have enhanced their checks. Coordinating Minister for National Security Teo Chee Hean also said on Facebook that security measures here have been stepped up.

Singapore Airlines and Tigerair also advised passengers travelling to and from Jakarta to plan ahead and arrive early at the airport, in view of the enhanced security screening.

Entrepreneur Keith Tan, 27, who left for Bangkok yesterday morning, said: "We didn't see anything out of the ordinary at Changi Airport, but it's always good to remain alert given that the Jakarta attack happened so close to home.

"We don't mind being subjected to more checks if it's for everyone's safety."