The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is working with the Singapore Police Force, Singapore Civil Defence Force, Building and Construction Authority and Urban Redevelopment Authority - to update current guidelines on security guidelines for building owner.
The current guidelines, called "Guidelines for Enhancing Building Security in Singapore" is a 138-page document sets out security measures such as using an anti-ramming perimeter line or blast-resistant structural materials. It was published in 2005 and updated in 2010. The guidelines were not compulsory. Security consultants estimate that less than 10 per cent of buildings here comply with MHA's existing recommendations.
MHA has acknowledged that the guidelines were too expensive, and security has to be balanced with "economic viability and sustainability".
With the current review, MHA is also looking to offer greater clarity in the technical specifications of security measures, such as vehicle barriers, closed-circuit television (CCTV) systems and glass facade standards.
Major developers here said they are working with the police to ensure their premises are secure.
The public is also becoming more tuned in to the issue. Many here have posted their concerns on social media in response to recent news reports of terrorist attacks.
The review is expected to be complete of the end of the year.
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