HIDDEN_ADDENDA, NATIONAL SECURITY COORDINATION SECRETARIAT

NATIONAL SECURITY COORDINATION SECRETARIAT: PROF S. JAYAKUMAR

Deputy Prime Minister and
Co-ordinating Minister for Security and Defence

Ensure stability and security in an uncertain world

The threat of transnational terrorism is undiminished. Some terrorist attacks have succeeded, in London, Bali, Jordan, Egypt, while others have been foiled through arrests in Canada and the US. In Singapore, our security agencies have remained vigilant. Major exercises like Exercise Northstar were conducted to prepare us for the worst. We have taken a whole-of-government approach to tackle this long-term threat. The National Security Coordination Secretariat (NSCS) created in the Prime Minister’s Office facilitates this process through its two agencies - the National Security Coordination Centre (NSCC) and the Joint Counter Terrorism Centre (JCTC).

At home, NSCS works with the various security agencies in strategic planning and key policy issues. Various programmes, like courses and seminars, are conducted to raise awareness, to familiarise the agencies with national security plans and policies, and to foster a collaborative culture. A Centre of Excellence for National Security (CENS) has been set up to help NSCS explore new policy thinking and innovative ideas to further enhance national security. Abroad, NSCS will continue to strengthen ties with our regional partners in ASEAN, as well as with our international partners, to combat this shared security threat.

Seize opportunities in a time of rapid change and increasing competition

In the face of growing complexities and rising uncertainties, NSCS is developing a risk assessment and horizon scanning capability, through a development project. The project will help build and track a range of possible scenarios and pick up weak signals of surprises that can cause us great disruptions. The system will also facilitate inter-agency collaboration and horizontal communications among the various security agencies.

Foster an inclusive society

In the people sector, NSCS coordinates the various agencies involved in the continuing effort to raise the public’s awareness of the threats to Singapore’s security. This will help enhance individual and community resilience. Citizens are encouraged to play a more active role in combating terrorism. NSCS supports the Community Engagement Programme. NSCS will participate in more public outreach campaigns to remind Singaporeans that we all have an important role in maintaining social harmony.