27-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam has noted a significant rise in anti-Singapore sentiments on social media since the October 7 Hamas attacks and subsequent Israeli strikes in Gaza. Speaking at the annual Ministry of Home Affairs National Day Awards investiture on November 27, Shanmugam highlighted the impact of Middle East events on Singapore and the Home Team’s work.
The comments, originating from the region, often accuse Singapore of being pro-West or pro-Israel. Some references even liken Singapore to “Tanah Melayu” – Malay Lands – drawing parallels with Israel’s presence on Palestinian land. Singapore officially supports a two-state solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, as emphasized in a recent parliamentary motion acknowledging Israel’s right of self-defense while denouncing disproportionate attacks on Gaza.
During a parliamentary debate on November 6, Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted a surge in anti-Singapore rhetoric and violent threats, a concern echoed by Shanmugam at the recent event. Online calls for Singapore to be targeted using rockets and bombs have intensified, with global terrorist groups exploiting the situation to renew calls for attacks, according to Shanmugam. The perceived threat has escalated, posing a higher risk.
The Middle East conflict saw Hamas launching raids into Israel on October 7, resulting in casualties and hostage situations. Israel’s retaliatory actions, including air, artillery, and naval strikes alongside a ground offensive, claimed more lives. A four-day truce commenced on November 24, with hostages released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
Shanmugam highlighted the tactical planning and coordination involved in the October attacks, despite the use of relatively low-tech equipment. From a security perspective, he stressed that Singapore needs to draw lessons from such incidents, considering the potential vulnerability to similar attacks.
Highlighting the importance of safeguarding Singapore’s peace and harmony, Shanmugam urged citizens to sympathize with the suffering civilians and contribute to trusted humanitarian efforts without compromising the nation’s stability. Reports of rising Islamophobia and antisemitism globally, including instances in London, underline the need to preserve Singapore’s religious diversity. Recent police reports in Singapore reveal an increase in offensive remarks or actions targeting the Jewish or Muslim communities, emphasizing the importance of protecting the nation’s tolerance and harmony.
