Remain vigilant, stand in solidarity: President Tan

President Tony Tan Keng Yam said Singaporeans must be vigilant against terror and be prepared not to let fear overwhelm them or divide society in an attack. ST PHOTO: JAMIE KOH

In a Facebook post last night on recent terror attacks, President Tony Tan Keng Yam said Singaporeans must be vigilant against terror and be prepared not to let fear overwhelm them or divide society in an attack. Here is the full text of his remarks:

"Deeply disturbed by the recent spate of terror attacks around the world.

In a short span of 10 days, we saw five major terror incidents in some major cities, the latest of which was yesterday's senseless attacks in London. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their bereaved families.

The attacks are ghastly reminders that we must remain vigilant in our struggle against the scourge of extremism. Singapore is not spared in this global fight. Singapore has already foiled two planned attacks so far, and we recently found out that one Arabic online publication had identified two Singapore buildings as potential targets. We must be prepared.

At the same time, we must not let fear overwhelm us or drive a wedge between our communities, or we will play into the hands of the perpetrators.

We must stand in solidarity, and stay strong in the face of adversity. If an attack does happen, we must bounce back stronger. We will not let terror take control of our lives.

Singapore has a strong foundation of a harmonious multicultural and multi-religious society. I am confident we will together win this war against the evil of terrorism."

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 05, 2017, with the headline Remain vigilant, stand in solidarity: President Tan. Subscribe