The Security and External Relations Sector comprises the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF), the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). This sector accounts for $13.58 billion or 33.0% of government expenditure in FY2007.

The Security and External Relations Sector aims to achieve the following outcomes:

• Peace, Security and Sovereignty
• Safe Streets
• Preparedness for Emergencies
• Stable and Positive Relationships with Other Countries

Peace, Security and Sovereignty

MINDEF will ensure that Singaporeans continue to enjoy a peaceful and secure environment, with Singapore enjoying unimpeded access to its air and sea lines of communication.

The SAF will maintain a high state of operational readiness to respond to any conventional or non-conventional threat to Singapore’s security, while maintaining a wide circle of defence ties with both regional and extra-regional friendly forces.

The SAF will equip its servicemen with the necessary skills and knowledge to leverage on technologically advanced weapons and operational doctrines of modern warfare.

Safe Streets

$11 million will be invested in the advanced phases for the Unified Closed Circuit Television Management System and Public Camera Zone. In FY2007, MHA will expand the public CCTV coverage from Boat Quay, Geylang, Newton Circus and Little India to other strategic city areas with high economic and security importance.

$16 million will be set aside to enhance intelligence gathering and enforcement at the various checkpoints, to detect and deter drug abuse and smuggling.

$2.6 million will be used to fund programmes to enhance the reintegration potential of released offenders. These programmes include the Literacy Education Accelerated Programme, the Rebuilding Lives Programme, and the Resettlement Programme.

MHA will also set up the Anti-Unlicensed Money Lending Unit within the Criminal Investigation Department to consolidate its efforts against syndicated unlicensed money-lending.

Preparedness for Emergencies

$36.7 million will be allocated for the construction of new Civil Defence public shelters in MRT stations along the Circle Line, as well as for the maintenance of existing public shelters around Singapore.

$6 million will be allocated for the construction of a new fire station with HazMat response capabilities at the Jurong Island extension, for the provision of comprehensive and speedy emergency response services.

Stable and Positive Relationships with Other Countries

MFA will continue to safeguard and promote the interests of Singapore and Singaporeans through effective diplomacy.