Singapore remains a focal point in extremist propaganda, posing ongoing security challenges.
Call for Recruitment in Singapore
A report from the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS) revealed that in September 2022, the Islamic State (IS) group called upon Muslims in Singapore and other parts of Asia to join its ranks. Released through IS media affiliate Al-Furqan, the 36-minute audiotape featured a spokesperson urging global Muslim participation, with a specific focus on East Asian countries such as Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India.
IS’s narrative portrayed Muslims in these regions as particularly oppressed, calling for resistance against “communists” and “infidels.” Singapore’s Internal Security Department (ISD) acknowledged awareness of the recording but clarified that no credible or specific threats to Singapore have emerged from it. The ISD emphasized the importance of public vigilance against terrorism and radicalisation.
Regional Implications and Rising Concerns
The RSIS report assessed that threats from Islamist extremism and terrorism—whether from organised networks abroad or self-radicalised individuals within Singapore—remained significant in 2022. Analysts Kalicharan Veera Singam and Abigail Leong highlighted the critical role of the Internet in sustaining global jihadist efforts. They described this “cyber jihad” as a dangerous phenomenon, particularly in a digitally connected society like Singapore.
The resurgence of the Taliban in Afghanistan has raised concerns about potential ripple effects in Southeast Asia. However, evidence of collaboration between groups such as the Taliban, Al-Qaeda, and Jemaah Islamiyah (JI) in the region remains limited.
Local Challenges Amidst Global Trends
While there is no immediate threat, the report noted that Singapore continues to be a high-value target in extremist propaganda. Social tensions related to race and religion remain a potential vulnerability. The analysts referenced incidents such as Australian Andrew Gosling’s 2022 conviction for an act of religious hostility and a former lecturer’s recent jail sentence for making racist remarks.
These isolated events underscore the importance of fostering tolerance and social harmony to counter potential exploitation by extremist ideologies. RSIS reiterated the need for vigilance, unity, and proactive measures to address evolving security challenges.
