Good evening
Heightened Security Environment and Measures Taken
While Singapore has enjoyed many years of peace and tranquility, we
cannot take our security for granted. We have a duty to safeguard
the safety and security enjoyed by everyone. Our security agencies
have already stepped up vigilance and enhanced our security
measures. We cannot afford to slacken our vigilance, as just one
successful terrorist attack can be disastrous. Look at what
happened in Spain recently.
KINS Units - Protecting Our Homeland
2 Our enhanced security measures include the tightening of border
control and stepped up protection of key installations. In these
two areas, the contributions of the Police National Service Key
Installation Protection (KINS) Units have been critical. Deployed
to enhance the security of key installations, such as those at
checkpoints and oil refineries, since Oct 2001, members of the KINS
Unit, like all of you here, were mobilised because you have the
required specialised skills and expertise.
3 Since the formation of its first troop in 1994, the development
of KINS units has achieved several milestones.
4 Firstly, the Police National Service Department (PNSD) underwent
a re-organisation on 1 Nov 2003. PNSD now takes on the centralised
command and control, training, and administration of KINS units, in
addition to its NS human resource management portfolio, to focus on
building its expertise on the protection of key installations. This
centralisation under the PNSD will ensure that the KINS units are
commanded by officers who know the men well. I understand that PNSD
aims to put our KINS units on the world map to gain international
recognition as experts on facility protection. I look forward to
that day.
5 Secondly, the inaugural Open Mobilisation Exercise for PNSmen was
conducted on 21 Feb 2004 when four KINS units were mobilised
through radio and TV. This exercise was an overwhelming success,
with a 100 per cent response rate within slightly over four hours.
Clearly, adopting an open mobilisation system, in addition to our
silent one, will enhance our operational readiness capabilities in
dealing with emergencies.
6 Lastly, the new Police KINS Training Camp (PKTC), located at the
junction of Clementi Road and Ulu Pandan Road, will be operational
next month. Equipped with enhanced training facilities, the camp
will be used to train all KINS officers.
Recognising KINS' Contributions
7 This evening's appreciation dinner has been specially arranged to
recognise the commitment and effort put in by all of you - our KINS
officers. Thank you for your effort and sacrifices.
8 Let us not forget your employers. They too, play a crucial role
in supporting your commitment to national security. We are
fortunate that many employers today understand the importance of
National Service and have adapted to the inconvenience. Despite the
tough economic times, they have displayed unwavering support.
9 Equally important are your families and loved ones. I am sure
that their support and encouragement have made it easier for you to
fully commit yourselves to fulfill your duties to the
country.
10 Once again, let me extend my sincerest thanks to all of you,
your employers as well as your families. I hope you enjoy this
dinner tonight.
Thank you.