ISA arrests demonstrate growing tendencies towards religious extremism in region: SFCCA

SINGAPORE - The arrests of 27 radicalised Bangladesh nationals who were working here demonstrate growing tendencies towards religious extremism in the region, the Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations (SFCCA) said on Wednesday night (Jan 20).

"While they were not planning any terrorist attacks in Singapore, and it is only a minority who subscribes to extremist teachings, the incident demonstrates growing tendencies towards religious extremism in the region, which could possibly undermine Singapore's national security and racial and religious harmony," it said in a statement.

The SFCCA also supports the Government's actions to beef up national security.

"Singaporeans should also remain calm and be more vigilant against radical teachings and ideologies, at the same time work hand in hand with the government to safeguard our collective security," it added.

The actions of a few should not be allowed to undermine Singapore's racial and social harmony, SFCCA president Chua Thian Poh said.

But with terrorism being a global threat, "it is imperative that each of us, regardless of race or religion, take on the role of a responsible Singaporean citizen to support the government's efforts to strengthen national security and fortify religious harmony and social cohesiveness", the statement said.

The 27 men supported the armed jihad ideology of terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Of the group, 26 have been repatriated to Bangladesh, while the last person remains in prison.

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