'Can’t turn every school into a garrison': SM Shanmugam on balancing security, free movement after school attack plots
Singapore's Senior Minister K Shanmugam stated that schools cannot be turned into high-security garrisons despite recent threats from radicalized teenagers. The government is focusing on balancing national security with the need for open, accessible educational environments.
Why it matters
It reflects the ongoing challenge governments face in maintaining public safety while preserving civil liberties and the character of public institutions.
The coordinating minister for national security also said that the government is studying the best way to protect youths on social media amid the recent detentions under the Internal Security Act.
Senior Minister K Shanmugam and Education Minister Desmond Lee speak to the media on Jul 27, 2026, after three radicalised teens were detained under the ISA. (Photo: CNA/Wallace Woon)
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