Coordinating Minister for National Security K. Shanmugam stated that Singapore will take action against any citizen fighting overseas in foreign causes. He highlighted the critical importance of racial and religious harmony in maintaining peace within the nation, especially during times of global stress and conflict.
Shanmugam emphasized that Singapore's laws strictly prohibit citizens from engaging in violence abroad, whether for countries or organizations like ISIS, or in conflicts such as those in Ukraine or Gaza. He warned that any Singaporean identified as participating in such activities will face consequences, including detention by the Internal Security Department if they are in Singapore.
Speaking at an event co-organized by Khadijah Mosque and the Religious Rehabilitation Group, Shanmugam also underscored the vital role of religious and community leaders in fostering unity and compassion across faiths. He pointed to the vulnerability of young people to online radicalization, citing cases where teenagers have aspired to join extremist groups. The minister credited the success of Singapore's peace and rehabilitation efforts to the sustained contributions of these leaders and community support networks.