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Straits Times
30-07-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Forum: Preventing radicalisation demands a whole-of-society effort
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox I read with interest the article ' Online platforms halve time it takes for Singaporeans to be self-radicalised: ISD ' (July 29). The Internal Security Department's (ISD) latest report revealing that online platforms and chat groups have halved the time it takes for Singaporeans to be self-radicalised is deeply concerning and ought to galvanise a strong, united response from all of us. That some of those radicalised are minors makes this even more urgent. We are witnessing a rapidly evolving terrorism threat. Radicalisation no longer requires face-to-face contact or overseas travel. Today, a smartphone and internet connection are all it takes. In a matter of weeks, individuals, especially youth, can be drawn into echo chambers that glorify violence, justify hatred, and distort religion or ideology. What makes this trend especially insidious is how extremist narratives are packaged in memes, gaming slang, and short-form videos. These messages are not hidden in obscure forums. Rather, they are present on platforms youth use daily: Telegram, Discord, Reddit, YouTube, and even gaming servers and TikTok. ISD's work in early detection and rehabilitation is commendable, but no security agency can act alone. The front line now lies in our homes, classrooms and places of worship. Parents must stay alert to not only distress or delinquency, but also subtle shifts in language and world view. Teachers and counsellors need support to have conversations about identity, belonging, and online influence. Religious and community leaders play a key role in debunking harmful ideologies and offering guidance to those who feel disillusioned or marginalised. Digital literacy must also evolve. It should go beyond spotting fake news to include the ability to question ideological content and reject black-and-white thinking. Our youth must be taught not just how to avoid scams or cyber bullying, but also how to critically navigate a complex and often manipulative online space. The task of preventing radicalisation demands a whole-of-society effort. Just as we rallied together during the pandemic and other national challenges, we must now bring that same vigilance to protecting our young and preserving our social harmony. Irwan Jamil
Straits Times
01-06-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
Forum: Singapore-France partnership can unlock nuclear energy potential
I read with interest the article 'S'pore and France to expand defence ties, cooperate on nuclear energy in upgraded relationship' (May 30). The elevation of Singapore-France relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, including cooperation on nuclear energy, is both timely and forward-looking. France is among the world's most advanced nuclear nations, with over 70 per cent of its electricity generated from nuclear power. Its experience in design, safety, regulation and public engagement presents a valuable opportunity for Singapore to deepen technical cooperation, jointly explore feasibility studies, and co-develop regulatory and safety frameworks appropriate for the Republic's context. French collaboration could also support public communication strategies to build confidence and counter misconceptions. Trust and transparency are essential, particularly when public sentiment often associates nuclear energy with historical accidents rather than technological evolution. As Singapore ramps up its decarbonisation efforts under the Singapore Green Plan, small modular reactors (SMRs) deserve serious consideration as a long-term option for enhancing energy security. Unlike traditional reactors, SMRs are compact, inherently safer due to passive safety features , and can be modularly deployed to match demand. Their scalability and reduced footprint make them especially suitable for Singapore, where large-scale renewables are limited by geography and weather dependency. While site selection remains a key challenge, underground, offshore and restricted-access sites offer potential pathways. Semakau Island, already engineered and distanced from residential areas, presents one possibility for hosting an SMR facility. Singapore has long taken a methodical, science-based approach to policymaking. With global partners like France, we are well-positioned to position the SMR as a strategic investment in a resilient and low-carbon energy future. Irwan Jamil More on this Topic Forum: What readers are saying Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
