ISD warns terrorism threat to Singapore remains high; youth radicalisation a pressing concern
Of the eight cases dealt with under the Internal Security Act since July 2025, six involved youths under the age of 21, according to the Internal Security Department's latest Singapore Terrorism Threat Assessment Report.
The Internal Security Department (ISD) of Singapore has warned that the terrorism threat to the nation remains high as of September 10, 2025. This assessment, outlined in the ISD's Singapore Terrorism Threat Assessment Report, highlights the ongoing influence of conflicts in the Middle East on global security dynamics. While there are no specific indications of an imminent attack on Singapore, the country's strategic location and perceived alliances with Western countries render it an appealing target for terrorist entities.
The ISD points to self-radicalisation as the primary catalyst for domestic terrorism threats, with a concerning trend of younger individuals falling prey to extremist ideologies. This issue is particularly pronounced among youths, with the department noting a notable surge in cases involving young individuals being radicalised. The emergence of Composite Violent Extremism (CoVE) has further complicated the situation, especially among younger self-radicalised individuals.
CoVE, also known as "salad bar" extremism, refers to a hybrid approach where individuals blend various extremist ideologies to justify their violent actions. The report underscores that Singapore has encountered three cases of CoVE since September 2025, demonstrating the sophistication and localised nature of this threat. Additionally, the ISD has flagged the rise of far-right extremism, which is increasingly incorporating elements of antisemitism, anti-Muslim rhetoric, and East Asian supremacy.
This ideological shift is facilitated by the global reach of far-right extremist narratives, which are being adapted and localized to resonate with regional audiences. The ISD also warns about the growing influence of Nihilistic Violent Extremism (NVE), a form of extremism characterized by a profound hostility towards society or humanity, where violence is a central aim.
Recent incidents, such as a school shooting in Tacloban City, Philippines, perpetrated by youths who drew inspiration from far-right extremist symbols, serve as stark reminders of the escalating threat. The ISD emphasizes that while there is no direct indication of such attacks occurring in Singapore, the heightened risk posed by entities like the Iran-backed Kata i Hizballah and their affiliates, including the newly emerged Harakat Ashab al-Yamin al-Islamiya (HAYI), cannot be overlooked.
The department stresses that any attempt by such individuals to enter Singapore would be met with denial of entry, underscoring the nation's commitment to safeguarding its populace against these evolving threats.
Written by urgent.news from CNA - Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
