(Opinion) Singapore’s Threat Outlook 2017: The Terrorist Challenge Ahead
2016-12-20 09:33:15 source：RSIS
December 19, 2016
"Synopsis
The 2016 Global Terrorism Index (GTI) report by the Institute for Economics and Peace has ranked Singapore as one of the safest countries in the world, maintaining last year’s position. While this attests to the efficacy of Singapore’s counter-terrorism efforts, the unceasing threat of terrorism calls for steadfast vigilance, preparedness and resilience at all levels of society.
Commentary
THE 2016 GLOBAL Terrorism Index (GTI) report by the Institute for Economics and Peace lists Singapore among the 34 safest countries in the world, with the lowest ranking of 130. Notwithstanding, Singapore needs to stand ready against terrorist attacks as the ranking excludes factors that are difficult to quantify such as foiled terrorist plots and radicalisation. Furthermore, Daesh – another name for the self-proclaimed Islamic State (IS) – has called for its supporters overseas to launch revenge attacks on member countries of the US-led global coalition. This includes Singapore which also hosts foreign interests of these countries such as their corporations and embassies.
As a small country in a volatile region, Singapore may be affected by the security headwinds from neighbouring countries such as the Philippines (ranked 12th in the GTI index), Thailand (15th), Indonesia (38th) and Malaysia (61st). With the availability of jihadist publications in Bahasa such as Al-Fatihin newspaper and a Bahasa version of Rumiyah magazine which replaces the earlier Dabiq series, Southeast Asia is increasingly important in Daesh’s strategic calculus."
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