Minister Masagos Zulkifli emphasizes trust and resilience amid extremism challenges
SINGAPORE – Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli stressed that the unity and trust shared among Singaporeans remain the nation’s strongest defense against extremism. Speaking at the inaugural Tampines Unite Gathering on October 27, Mr. Masagos highlighted that extremists succeed not only through violence but also by breaking down trust within communities.
Foiled Attack Sparks Community Response
The gathering comes after a foiled terror plot involving a self-radicalized 17-year-old who planned to carry out an attack at Tampines. Arrested under the Internal Security Act (ISA), the incident sparked discussions on the importance of maintaining interfaith understanding and vigilance against radical influences.
Mr. Masagos, who initiated the event, urged residents not to let such incidents undermine Singapore’s social cohesion. “Even though our security agencies have been successful in preventing the attack, the extremists will still succeed if, because of the news, we have lost the trust in one another,” he said.
Extremism Knows No Boundaries
Mr. Masagos emphasized that radicalisation transcends racial and religious boundaries. Referencing past incidents, he reiterated that self-radicalisation can happen within any community. “We must never allow such people or views to divide us. We must remain united,” he stated.
Promoting Community Trust and Vigilance
Religious leaders from churches, temples, mosques, and other organizations united in a silent prayer during the event to bless the residents of Tampines. The symbolic gesture underscored the importance of solidarity and mutual respect across Singapore’s multiracial and multi-religious society.
Residents were encouraged to engage with neighbors from diverse backgrounds and report any signs of radicalisation to authorities. “It is up to us, every one of us, to address this issue together,” Mr. Masagos affirmed.
The event drew participation from local grassroots leaders, MPs, and community members, reflecting a collective effort to strengthen resilience against hate and violence.
