Move over, Paw Patrol: S’pore preschoolers learn to run, hide and tell from a Police Pal guide
It is the final installment in the Police Pal series first rolled out in 2024 for children aged four to six.
The Singapore government launched a storybook called "Run, Hide and Tell: An SGSecure Story" on October 5 to educate preschoolers about staying safe in the event of encountering a suspicious person or object. The storybook, created by the Singapore Police Force and the SGSecure Programme Office, features animal characters to teach young children the importance of being alert, moving away from danger, and seeking help from a trusted adult.
During the launch, held at MOE Kindergarten @ West Spring in Bukit Panjang, Second Minister for Home Affairs Sim Ann read the storybook to a class of Kindergarten 2 students. Over 200 preschoolers, teachers, and police officers participated in emergency-themed activities and colouring sessions.
Sim Ann emphasized that even young children can learn the steps "Run, Hide, Tell" to protect themselves and seek help when necessary. Parents should reinforce these lessons at home to ensure preparedness from a young age. The kindergarten's centre head, Rico Chan, noted that the preschoolers understood the concept of a stranger carrying a suspicious item into school and should run away. He also stressed the importance of remaining orderly and listening to instructions.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted that despite decades of peace and security, Singaporeans should not become complacent, as close calls have occurred in recent years. He cited the case of a 17-year-old self-radicalised individual who was detained in 2024 while plotting an attack near Tampines West Community Club. Wong assured that while no security system can guarantee 100% protection, Singapore remains vigilant, and further threats could arise unexpectedly.
In September 2026, ISD's annual threat assessment report indicated that conflicts in the Middle East are contributing to heightened terrorism threats in Singapore, with growing hostilities between communities. Anti-Semitism and Islamophobia have surged globally. The report also highlighted a troubling rise in youth radicalization, with cases nearly quadrupling from four between 2017 and 2021 to 15 in 2022.
Recent incidents include a shooting rampage in Thailand and school attacks in the southern Philippines and Jakarta, underscoring the need for continued security awareness and vigilance.
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