The TOPSIS programme trains security personnel and ground staff at crowded establishments to be the first line of defense against potential threats.
SINGAPORE: From petty criminals to hardened terrorists, security personnel and ground staff at tourist hotspots are being trained to spot tell-tale signs that could indicate potential threats. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the Singapore Police Force (SPF) to promote community vigilance and strengthen homefront security across the island.
The Threat-Oriented Person Screening Integrated System (TOPSIS) programme, which trains select workers and partners, aims to help detect security anomalies before they escalate. Staff are taught to report suspicious activity to their security departments, who will then assess whether police involvement is necessary.
Alongside human vigilance, the police also recommend using technology like closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras to enhance monitoring, particularly in crowded settings.
Gardens by the Bay Leads the Way
Gardens by the Bay, one of Singapore’s most popular tourist attractions, is among the 19 organisations that have adopted the TOPSIS framework. During the holiday season, the attraction is seeing 50% more visitors than usual, as both locals and tourists flock to the Supertree Grove and Flower Dome to enjoy Christmas displays and festive activities.
To keep visitors safe, the security team at Gardens by the Bay has intensified its efforts by doubling the number of staff, conducting regular patrols, and monitoring for any suspicious individuals or objects. Jacky Lim, the Garden’s Assistant Director of Security, shared that his team uses their TOPSIS training to analyze the behavior of individuals, allowing them to intervene when necessary.
“It’s all about having the right awareness,” said Mr. Addison Goh, Senior Director of Attractions Operations at Gardens by the Bay. “Our staff are trained in situational awareness to spot suspicious items or people and follow the reporting process, ensuring everyone’s safety.”
Other Attractions Following Suit
Sentosa was the first to implement the TOPSIS framework about seven years ago. During the busy year-end festive season, Sentosa management increases training for frontline staff at its hotels and beachfront establishments, with added emphasis on the use of security technology and heightened on-ground presence.
Mr. Chew Yun Meng, Deputy Divisional Director of Island Operations at Sentosa, said, “It takes a whole kampung to jaga (take care of) the kampung and to keep it safe.”
Meanwhile, at Downtown East, which is experiencing high foot traffic during the festive period, management has expanded the programme to include tenants. Felice Low, Director of Infrastructure at NTUC Club, which manages the hub, emphasized the importance of community involvement in maintaining security.
“No success can be achieved without the community’s involvement. With an effective TOPSIS framework, suspicious activities can be swiftly addressed,” Ms. Low said.
Evolving Security Framework
The TOPSIS programme, first conceptualized in 2007, continues to evolve and expand. It’s being rolled out to more high-traffic areas, such as public transportation hubs, religious sites, and educational institutions, to ensure public safety remains a top priority.
Bridget Goh, Assistant Director of the SPF’s Security Programmes Centre for Protective Security, explained that the programme is designed to help communities recognize, report, and resolve security threats in collaboration with police efforts.
“We are building a culture of vigilance where everyone plays a part in keeping Singapore secure,” said Goh.
Wilbur Sim, Director of the SGSecure Programme Office, added, “Every little action counts. Our strongest defense against terrorism is our collective vigilance. Working hand in hand with security agencies, we can keep Singapore—and our families—safe and secure.”
With the holiday season in full swing, Singapore’s major tourist hotspots are working together to ensure that the security framework remains robust, encouraging both locals and tourists to play their part in keeping the community safe.
